Hong Kong, 2 April 2026 - Following the announcements of its three dedicated live auctions this spring, The Ai Lian Tong Collection: 800 Years of Chinese Ceramics, Pearls of The Orient: Treasures from Hong Kong Private Collectors, and Chinese Classical Furniture from the Shitou Shuwu Collection, Christie's presents Important Chinese Works of Art, to be held on 30 April during Hong Kong Asian Art Week. The sale offers a curated selection of nearly 100 exceptional Chinese ceramics and works of art, spanning the Shang to the Qing dynasties and ranging from archaic jades and bronzes to imperial ceramics, seals, and Buddhist sculptures, representing outstanding collections of academic significance.
Leading the sale is a magnificent and exceedingly rare pair of early Ming dynasty gilt-bronze luohan figures (hero image). Masterfully cast and depicting both Chinese and Indian style monks, the figures each bear inscriptions indicating their original placement within a temple ensemble. This remarkable pair belongs to an extremely rare identifiable group, with only two other related figures known. Exemplifying the pivotal transition from the naturalistic aesthetic of the Song period to the refined imperial court style of the early 15th century, the figures offer significant scholarly insight into the evolution of Buddhist iconography. Their impressive scale, exceptional craftsmanship and systematic left and right inscriptions strongly suggest an imperial scale commission for a major Buddhist temple complex, underscoring their importance among early Ming Buddhist sculptures.
More highlights
In 2026, Christie's, the world-leading art and luxury business, is celebrating its 40th Anniversary in Asia. Over the last four decades, Christie's has established itself as Asia's leading house, orchestrating many of the region's most historic and record-breaking sales of exceptional objects and collections, driving region-wide expansion, and pioneering digital innovations that have redefined the way collectors connect with and experience the industry in Asia. To celebrate this milestone, Christie's is presenting a year-long program of art and luxury sales, exhibitions and events across the region. Stay tuned for details announced throughout the year.
Auction previews
Shanghai | 2 to 3 April | Christie's Shanghai Art Space BUND ONE, 4/F, No.1 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road, Shanghai
Taipei | 18 to 19 April | Taipei Marriott Hotel, Grand Space 3rd Floor, No. 199 Lequn 2nd Road, Taipei
Hong Kong | 23 to 29 April | Christie's Asia Pacific Headquarters, 6th Floor, The Henderson, 2 Murray Road, Central
Preview dates and venues subject to change; pre-registration required.
Live auction
Hong Kong | 30 April | Christie's Asia Pacific Headquarters, 6th Floor, The Henderson, 2 Murray Road, Central
(Press Release)
