In a year of historic challenges set against the backdrop of a global pandemic, Sotheby’s exhibited extraordinary innovation and strength to deliver outstanding results. We reinvented the landscape of major art auctions in 2020, staging the first evening sale with live-streamed bidding from Hong Kong, London, and New York.

The Chinese art team also led the field with a remarkable 700-year-old scroll painting which stands as the most valuable work of art sold at auction in Asia in the year; the sale in Hong Kong of the ‘Garner’ yangcai vase from a European collection that topped the prices worldwide for Chinese works of art; and the unique ‘Stoclet’ fanghu archaic bronze vase in New York that led worldwide prices outside of Asia. These three achievements highlight Sotheby’s as the clear market leader in Chinese art globally year upon year.

The market for Chinese art continues to exhibit great strength and the global team is planning major sales series in New York, Hong Kong, London, and Paris with one series each month from March to June and September to December beginning with Asia Week New York in March. We will also hold mid-season online sales throughout the year. Find more details at our auction calendar.

The success of Sotheby’s international team relies on our close global teamwork building upon on the expertise of our specialists and their close and long-term relationships with clients and collectors around the world. We would be delighted to provide you a free and confidential valuation or consultation.

View Report

2020 Chinese Works of Art Global Market Report