Hangzhou, November 25, 2026 – The highly anticipated Xiling Yinshe 2026 Autumn Auction concluded successfully yesterday. The total transaction value of this autumn auction reached RMB 285 million, with a remarkable sell-through rate of 82.3%, a significant increase from the spring auction's 75.8%. This demonstrates a strong recovery trend in the art market, especially in the jade sector. Among them, the contemporary jade carving special session performed particularly well, becoming the biggest highlight of this auction.
Contemporary Jade Carving: High Prices Abound, Leading the Way
This autumn auction featured a special session titled "Contemporary Jade Carving Treasures," encompassing exquisite pieces made from various materials such as Hetian jade, jadeite, and Nanhong agate. This special session achieved a total transaction value of RMB 120 million, accounting for 42.1% of the total transaction value, with a high sell-through rate of 91.5%. Many lots were sold at prices far exceeding their estimates, sparking widespread discussion in the market.
Notably, a Hetian jade seed material carving titled "Auspicious Beasts Bringing Good Fortune" by Chinese jade carving master Wu Yuanquan was hammered down at an astonishing RMB 28 million, far surpassing its highest estimate of RMB 18 million, with a premium rate of 55.6%. This piece, with its delicate carving, warm jade quality, and auspicious symbolism, attracted fierce bidding from collectors. Another hand-held piece of Biyu (green jade) titled "Mountain and Water Clear Sound" by young jade carving artist Li Mingjie was sold for RMB 6.5 million, an increase of 30% from its estimate, indicating the growing recognition of young artists' works in the market.
In addition, a set of 10 jadeite cabochons was sold at an average price of RMB 3.5 million per piece, totaling RMB 35 million, an increase of 25% from the estimate, demonstrating the strong value preservation and appreciation potential of high-quality jadeite.
Market Analysis: Structural Trends Emerge, Value of Fine Pieces Returns
Mr. Lu Ming, Executive Director and General Manager of Xiling Yinshe Auction Co., Ltd., stated in an interview: "The success of this autumn auction, especially the outstanding performance of the contemporary jade carving sector, sends a positive signal that market confidence is steadily recovering. We have observed that collectors show a strong willingness to purchase fine pieces, works by renowned masters, and jade carvings with unique artistic styles. This indicates that the jade market is emerging from the adjustment period of the past few years and entering a stage that focuses more on quality and artistic value."
Professor Zhang Hua, a senior jade market analyst, pointed out: "The data from this auction clearly shows that the jade market is undergoing a structural adjustment. In recent years, some low-end or highly homogenized jade works have faced greater pressure, but the value of high-quality, culturally rich, and exquisitely crafted contemporary jade carvings is being rediscovered and recognized. Especially Hetian jade seed material and high-grade jadeite, their scarcity and non-renewable nature determine their long-term investment value. The rise of young artists has also injected new vitality into the market; their works often possess more innovation and a sense of the times, attracting the attention of younger generations of collectors."
Trend Forecast and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the industry generally believes that the jade market will continue to show a polarized trend. On the one hand, ordinary categories and works lacking artistic merit will face greater market challenges; on the other hand, master-level works, rare materials, unique creativity, and exquisite craftsmanship in contemporary jade carving will continue to be sought after, and their prices are expected to maintain steady growth. At the same time, with the enhancement of cultural confidence and a renewed appreciation for traditional cultural art, jade carvings with Eastern aesthetics and humanistic spirit will be more favored.
The success of this Xiling Yinshe autumn auction undoubtedly sets a positive tone for the 2027 art market, especially injecting a strong boost into the contemporary jade carving sector. The market anticipates the emergence of more fine pieces in the future, jointly promoting the prosperity and development of jade art.