What is the estimated value of this Chinese White Jade 'Chilong' Bi Disc?

This Qing Dynasty Chinese Carved White Jade 'Chilong' Bi Disc has an estimated market value between £3,000 and £5,000. This valuation is based on comparable sales of similar high-quality Qing Dynasty white jade bi discs at specialist auctions, such as Bonhams and Thomaston Auction. The excellent condition, pure nephrite jade, and masterful openwork carving contribute significantly to its desirability and value in the current market.

What era is this Chinese jade bi disc from?

This Chinese Carved White Jade 'Chilong' Bi Disc dates to the Qing Dynasty, specifically the 18th or 19th century. The stylistic elements, including the archaistic depiction of the 'chilong' dragon and the overall refinement of the carving, are highly characteristic of this period. The hand-carving techniques used are consistent with traditional methods from before the 20th century, distinguishing it from modern reproductions.

What condition is this Chinese jade bi disc in?

The Chinese Carved White Jade 'Chilong' Bi Disc is in excellent antique condition for its age. There are no visible chips, cracks, or significant losses to the delicate openwork carving. This exceptional state of preservation is a crucial factor, as it significantly enhances the item's desirability and market value. No restoration history is known or apparent from the photographic evidence provided.

Where should I sell this Qing Dynasty white jade bi disc?

For optimal results, it is strongly recommended to sell this Qing Dynasty white jade bi disc through specialist auction houses in the United Kingdom, such as Bonhams, Dreweatts, or Woolley & Wallis. These venues attract international collectors, particularly from mainland China and Hong Kong, during major Asian Art Weeks. This ensures competitive bidding and maximizes the potential net proceeds, avoiding the risks of general online marketplaces.

How can I confirm the authenticity of this Chinese jade carving?

While this valuation has high confidence in the item's authenticity based on visual evidence, a physical examination by a specialist in Chinese art is recommended for definitive confirmation. This would allow for material testing, such as specific gravity measurement, to verify it is genuine nephrite jade. Such an examination could also provide a more precise attribution within the Qing Dynasty, potentially refining its market value.

A Chinese Carved White Jade 'Chilong' Bi Disc, Qing Dynasty, 18th/19th Century

Estimated value: £3,000 - £5,000. A Chinese Carved White Jade 'Chilong' Bi Disc, Qing Dynasty, 18th/19th Century (Qing Dynasty (1644-1912)) — a researched valuation with cited comparable sales in Asian Art, from findthevalueof.com.

About this item

This finely carved white jade plaque is a classic example of a Chinese scholar's object from the Qing Dynasty, likely the 18th or 19th century. It takes the form of an ancient 'bi' disc, a symbol of heaven in early Chinese culture, but reinterprets it as a sophisticated decorative item. The material, a pure and translucent white nephrite jade, was the most highly prized of all materials in China, associated with purity, virtue, and immortality. The central motif is a 'chilong,' a mythical hornless dragon, carved in an archaistic style that looks back to ancient prototypes, a practice that was particularly fashionable during the reign of the Qianlong Emperor (1736-1795). The combination of precious material, ancient symbolism, and masterful craftsmanship makes this piece highly desirable. The market for authentic, high-quality Qing Dynasty jades is strong, with discerning collectors willing to pay a premium for top-tier examples that are well-carved and in excellent condition, as evidenced by recent auction results for comparable pieces.

How the value was reached

The valuation is based on an analysis of comparable auction results for similar Qing Dynasty white jade 'chilong' bi discs. The primary anchors are two verified sales at specialist auctions: a similar disc sold at Thomaston Auction for approximately £2,700 and a finer example at Bonhams for approximately £7,700. Our estimate is positioned cautiously within this range to reflect the item's high quality while also accounting for the lack of physical examination and documented provenance. Low-value sales on platforms like eBay for visually similar items were disregarded as they represent the market for modern reproductions, not genuine antiques. A typical reserve price at auction would be £2,400 (80% of the low estimate). After a standard seller's commission (e.g., 15%), net proceeds would be between approximately £2,550 and £4,250.

Comparable sales

This is a hand-carved pendant made of natural Hetian Jade, featuring a dragon and phoenix design. Its dimensions are 53*53*5 mm, and it weighs 27g. The item is in good condition and originates from China. — sold for $168.00 (eBay), 2026-06-25
The item is a "2.2" Old Chinese Natural White Jade Carving Dragon Beast Pattern Amulet Bi". It is an antique original made of jade, originating from China. The seller describes it as part of their collection of Chinese Old artwork. — sold for £359.66 (eBay), 2026-07-20
A white jade bi disc finely carved in high relief with a chilong holding a lingzhi spray in its mouth. The thick circular disc has a small aperture at the center, and the underside features neatly lined bosses within line borders. The stone is evenly polished. — sold for US$9,600 (Bonhams), 2023-09-18
A circular jade bi disc finely carved in high relief with intertwining archaistic Chilong motifs on one side and stylized cloud scrolls on the reverse. The jade has an even, oily luster, well-polished surfaces, and crisp detailing. It measures 0 1/2 x 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 inches (1.3 x 5.7 x 5.7 cm). — sold for $3,500.00 (Thomaston Auction), 2025-11-07

Expert notes

The valuation is contingent on the material being genuine nephrite jade and the piece dating to the Qing Dynasty. While all visual indicators are positive, we strongly recommend a physical examination by a specialist in Chinese art before selling. This would confirm the material and allow for a more precise attribution, potentially refining the value.

This report is one of the worked examples in our guide What is your jade worth?.