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Chinese art is distinguished by its historical depth and refined aesthetics. From delicate ceramics to evocative paintings, each piece is a representation of China’s millennia-old culture and traditions. Art experts offer free appraisal services to help collectors and enthusiasts understand the value of their works. This estimation process is essential, whether to sell, insure or simply appreciate a piece of art.

Estimates and prices of Chinese art objects on the market

Here is an overview of estimated prices for different categories of Chinese artworks, based on recent auction results:

Recognizing my Chinese artwork

To evaluate a Chinese work of art, several criteria must be taken into account:

Dating: Dating is one of the most important aspects in the evaluation of a work of art. Early works, particularly those from the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties, are particularly prized for their rarity and craftsmanship.

As an example of Ming ceramics, a blue and white porcelain vase from the 15th century Ming dynasty sold for around 28 million euros, setting a world record for ceramics. By contrast, a painting by a contemporary Chinese artist can fetch a few thousand euros. For example, a painting by Chinese artist Liu Xiaodong sold for around 150,000 euros at a recent auction.

Type of work : The type of work has a major impact on its value. Works destined for the imperial court, often more refined and well-documented, generally fetch higher prices than those produced for the international market.

For example, a piece of Qing dynasty porcelain destined for the Qianlong emperor sold for 10 million euros at auction. This piece was particularly prized for its direct connection with the court. Conversely, a piece of blue and white porcelain produced for the European market, although of good quality, can be valued at between 20,000 and 50,000 euros, which is far less than a court piece.

Provenance: A work’s ownership history can multiply its value. A piece that belonged to a renowned collector or institution can fetch dizzying prices. A vase from the Qing dynasty, once in the collection of a Chinese nobleman, fetched 5 million euros due to its documented history and rarity. However, a similar vase with no provenance or documentation can be valued at as little as 100,000 euros, as the absence of historical context considerably reduces its appeal.

Signatures and seals: Signatures and seals play a crucial role in establishing the authenticity of a work. Imperial seals can greatly enhance a piece’s value.

By way of illustration, a porcelain vase from the Qing dynasty bearing the seal of the Qianlong emperor sold for 20 million euros at an auction in Hong Kong. The seal confirmed its authenticity and historical importance. Conversely, a vase with no identifiable mark might fetch as little as 10,000 euros, as its authenticity remains in doubt.

Artistic quality: The quality of the techniques used and the materials employed is essential. Works executed with a high level of skill and first-rate materials often fetch higher prices.

• Celadon jade sculpture: A complex celadon jade sculpture sold for around 500,000 euros at an auction in Beijing, due to its exceptional artistic quality.
• Less well-executed object: In contrast, a simple jade object with less fine carving could sell for as little as 50,000 euros.

State of preservation: The state of preservation directly influences the value of a work. Pieces in excellent condition sell for much higher prices.

A Ming dynasty porcelain vase, in excellent condition, sold for 1 million euros in 2015. The integrity of the work was a key factor in its valuation. However, a similar vase with visible cracks or restorations was only appraised at 100,000 euros, underlining the significant impact of the state of conservation.

Artist’s reputation: The artist’s reputation has a considerable impact on the value of the work. Works by famous artists can fetch high prices. A painting of a horse by Xu Beihong sold for around $9.3 million in 2016. His status as an iconic twentieth-century artist greatly contributed to the piece’s value. In contrast, a work by a lesser-known artist may not fetch more than 5,000 euros, even if the quality is good.

Historical and artistic evolution of Chinese art

Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BC)

Known for its ritual bronzes, the Shang dynasty produced vases and cauldrons adorned with complex motifs, often dedicated to ancestors. A ritual cauldron (ding) sold for 2.375 million euros, illustrating the artisanal excellence of the period.

Zhou dynasty (1046-256 BC)

This period saw the rise of jade art and terracotta objects, often associated with royalty. A jade pendant fetched 300,000 euros, while terracotta figurines were also highly prized.

Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD)

Renowned for its ceramics and terracotta sculptures, the Han dynasty produced numerous funerary objects. A figurine of a horseman sold for 350,000 euros, testifying to the interest in funerary art.

Qin dynasty (221-206 BC)

Marked by the construction of the famous terracotta army of the first emperor Qin Shi Huang. This dynasty was short-lived but influential in standardizing and unifying styles and techniques.

Tang dynasty (618-907)

Considered an artistic peak, the Tang period saw the flowering of Buddhist sculptures and multicolored ceramics. A Buddhist sculpture sold for 1.41 million euros.

Song dynasty (960-1279)

Innovative in ceramics, the Song dynasty was also renowned for its paintings. A black porcelain dish sold for 1 million euros, while a landscape painting fetched 2 million dollars.

Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368)

Under the influence of the Mongols, Chinese arts were introduced to new styles and influences. Blue and white porcelain, which would become famous the world over, appeared and gained in popularity.

Ming dynasty (1368-1644)

The perfection of blue and white ceramics characterizes this period. A Ming vase sold for 6 million euros, highlighting the value of works from this period.

Qing Dynasty (1644-1912)

Marked by a fusion of old and new techniques, the Qing dynasty produced prized “famille rose” ceramics and jade objects. A “famille rose” porcelain sold for 5 million euros, illustrating the artistic richness of the period.