Warring States Jade Bi Achieves Strong Result: Bonhams Auction Highlights Sustained Demand for Archaic Jades

Warring States Jade Bi Achieves Strong Result: Bonhams Auction Highlights Sustained Demand for Archaic Jades

[Hong Kong, February 12, 2026] On February 12, 2026, at Bonhams' Asian Art auction, a highly anticipated “Fine and Rare Archaic Greenish-Yellow Jade Bi Disc, Late Warring States Period” (Lot 4637) sold for an impressive RMB 4,061,219 (approximately USD 560,000), significantly exceeding its pre-sale estimate of RMB 1,915,270 - 3,830,540. This result not only underscores the exceptional value of the jade bi itself but also reaffirms the sustained strong demand in the high-end archaic jade market and collectors' deep interest in ancient Chinese art.

#### Lot Highlights and Market Analysis

The Warring States jade bi that achieved this remarkable price features a warm, lustrous jade in a rare greenish-yellow hue, with natural calcification and a rich patina. Most notably, its exquisite carving of grain patterns (gu纹) is meticulously executed, with full, regularly arranged granules and smooth, powerful lines, perfectly embodying the characteristic craftsmanship of Warring States jade, often described as “carved as if cut, polished as if lacquered.” As ritual objects and symbols of status, Warring States jade bi carry rich historical and cultural information, and their exquisite craftsmanship and rarity have consistently made them highly sought after in the collecting world.

From the auction data, the final hammer price exceeded the upper estimate by nearly 6%, indicating a high degree of market recognition for archaic jade artifacts that are in excellent condition, have clear provenance, and possess significant historical and artistic value, especially those from the Warring States period. Despite global economic uncertainties, the top-tier art market, particularly the ancient Chinese art sector, appears to show resilience, even experiencing upward trends in certain premium categories.

#### Market Trend Interpretation

In recent years, the market for ancient Chinese art has shown several notable trends:

• Focus on Quality: Collectors and investors are increasingly adopting a 'less is more' strategy, concentrating their funds on top-tier items with clear historical backgrounds, exquisite craftsmanship, and rarity. The successful sale of this Warring States jade bi is a strong testament to this trend. Items of average condition or questionable authenticity tend to perform less impressively.

• Mutual Promotion of Academic Research and Market Value: With continuous archaeological discoveries and advancements in academic research, the dating, provenance, and cultural connotations of archaic jades are becoming clearer. This, in turn, enhances the market value of jade artifacts from specific periods and styles. Warring States jade bi, representing a pinnacle in the history of Chinese jade culture, exemplify how research and artistic value complement each other.

• Globalized Collecting Perspective: While Chinese buyers remain dominant, international collectors' interest in ancient Chinese art is also growing. The success of this auction may also reflect increased global attention to Asian art, particularly Chinese antiquities with profound cultural heritage.

• Integration of Online and Offline Platforms: The pandemic accelerated the digitalization of auction houses, making it easier for global collectors to participate in bidding. International auction houses like Bonhams, through their global networks and online platforms, have effectively expanded the reach of their lots, creating favorable conditions for high-value sales.

Looking ahead, the archaic jade market, especially the high-ancient jade segment, is expected to maintain steady growth. However, market scrutiny of lots will become even more stringent. Treasures with clear provenance, pristine condition, unique artistic style, or significant historical importance will continue to be highly sought after. Simultaneously, as a new generation of collectors emerges, their professional knowledge of art investment and aesthetic tastes are also evolving, which will prompt auction houses and dealers to invest more effort in sourcing, authentication, and promotion.

The successful auction of this Warring States greenish-yellow jade bi undoubtedly provides a strong start for the archaic jade market in 2026, signaling a year full of vitality and opportunities for collectors. For collectors, this presents both opportunities and challenges; discerning true gems in an increasingly competitive market will remain an eternal pursuit.