What Is Your Asian Art Worth?
Expert Asian Art Valuations: Understand Your Collection’s True Worth
Discover the true value of your Asian art collection. At Mark Littler LTD, we provide expert valuations that make the process simple and insightful. Our specialists have decades of experience with Chinese ceramics, Japanese prints, Southeast Asian sculptures, and more. We’ll help you understand your pieces’ significance and current market value, so you can make informed decisions about buying, selling, or insuring your collection.
Skip the hassle of contacting multiple specialists and auction houses. We provide accurate, detailed appraisals and can even connect you with our network of buyers to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your precious artworks. Submit your images for a free, no-obligation valuation today.

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Learn More About Your Asian Art
Do you want to learn more about Chinese ceramics? Dive into our expert guides to discover what makes Chinese vases so valuable, explore the fascinating world of porcelain decoration, or find out what your own piece might be worth. Whether you’re a collector or just curious about a family heirloom, we’re here to help.
Discover Important Asian Art Categories
The world of Asian art spans countless forms and traditions, each with unique characteristics that collectors and experts look for when determining value. From delicate porcelain to sturdy bronzes, imposing furniture to intricate textiles, understanding these key categories helps identify potentially valuable pieces. Here’s what to look for in some of the most significant types of Asian art.
Chinese Art: A Legacy of Imperial Craftsmanship
From the sophisticated porcelain of the Qing Dynasty to the timeless elegance of classical furniture, Chinese art represents one of the world’s oldest and most refined artistic traditions. Each category showcases distinctive characteristics that help determine both authenticity and value. Here are the main categories of Chinese art that we regularly value and sell.

Porcelain Vases
Chinese porcelain vases represent one of the most significant achievements in ceramic art history. The finest examples come from the Qianlong and Kangxi periods of the Qing Dynasty, known for their technical perfection and artistic grace. Blue and white porcelain remains highly prized, while famille rose and famille verte pieces showcase spectacular enamelling techniques. Imperial reign marks, when authentic, can add substantial value, though many pieces bear honorific marks copying earlier periods.

Jades
Jade has been revered in Chinese culture for over 7,000 years, prized above gold and silver. The finest pieces are crafted from either nephrite or jadeite, with colours ranging from pure white to vivid green. Imperial jade pieces, particularly from the Qianlong period, command exceptional prices. Common forms include bangles, pendants, animal carvings, and ritual objects. The quality of carving, translucency of the stone, and intensity of colour all influence value.

Bronzes
Chinese ritual bronzes rank among the most sophisticated early metalwork in world history. The finest pieces date from the Shang and Zhou dynasties, displaying exceptional casting techniques and intricate surface decoration. These vessels often feature taotie masks, dragon motifs, and complex geometric patterns. Patina development over centuries helps authenticate genuine ancient pieces. The most valuable examples come with provenance from major collections.

Scrolls
Chinese scroll paintings and calligraphy represent the height of classical Asian art. Landscapes, figures, flowers, and birds are common subjects, executed in ink and colour on silk or paper. The most valuable pieces bear signatures and seals from renowned artists, though attribution can be challenging. Condition is crucial, as scrolls are delicate and susceptible to damage. Early examples from the Song and Yuan dynasties are particularly prized.

Furniture
Chinese hardwood furniture reached its aesthetic peak during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The finest pieces showcase precious huanghuali or zitan woods, with sophisticated joinery requiring no nails or screws. Clean lines, elegant proportions, and subtle decorative elements characterise the most valuable pieces. Original patina and minimal restoration are crucial for maximum value.

Textiles
Imperial Chinese textiles showcase extraordinary technical skill and artistic sophistication. Dragon robes, rank badges, and ceremonial hangings feature complex symbolism and stunning workmanship. The most valuable pieces display fine silk embroidery, intricate kesi tapestry weave, or gold-wrapped thread decoration. Early examples with imperial provenance command premium prices.
Japanese Art: Traditions of Precision and Beauty
From exquisitely detailed netsuke carvings to bold and dynamic woodblock prints, Japanese art is characterised by meticulous craftsmanship and aesthetic refinement. Each category demonstrates unique qualities that collectors particularly value, blending technical mastery with artistic vision. Here are the main categories of Japanese art that we regularly assess and sell.

Netsuke
These miniature Japanese toggles represent the pinnacle of carving artistry. The finest examples, often crafted from ivory or hardwood, showcase incredible detail and perfect proportion despite their tiny size. Subject matter ranges from mythological scenes to animals and human figures. The most valuable pieces come from known carvers of the 18th and 19th centuries, with signatures and unstained original patina. Quality netsuke demonstrate smooth wear patterns from genuine use.

Okimono
Japanese decorative figures, typically larger than netsuke, showcase extraordinary artistic skill. The finest examples, often in ivory or wood, display multiple figures in dynamic poses with incredible detail. Meiji period pieces (1868-1912) are particularly prized, especially those signed by master carvers. Quality of carving, complexity of composition, and original condition significantly influence value.

Woodblock Prints
Japanese ukiyo-e prints capture the vibrant culture of the Edo period. Early impressions with strong colours, particularly those by masters like Hokusai and Hiroshige, command premium prices. The most valuable prints show crisp lines, perfect registration, and minimal fading. Famous series like Hokusai’s ’36 Views of Mount Fuji’ are especially sought after, though condition and impression quality remain crucial factors.

Samurai Swords
Traditional Japanese swords represent the peak of metallurgical achievement. Authentic antique blades, particularly those from named smiths, can be extremely valuable. The quality of the steel, the beauty of the temper line (hamon), and the overall condition significantly affect value. Original Edo period blades with complete mounting sets (koshirae) are especially prized.

Lacquerware
Japanese lacquer art combines incredible durability with sophisticated decoration. The finest pieces showcase techniques like maki-e, where gold or silver powder creates intricate designs. Edo period pieces with original condition command premium prices. Complex decorative techniques, multiple layers of lacquer, and imperial provenance all enhance value.

Porcelain
Japanese porcelain encompasses several distinctive traditions, from refined Kakiemon to bold Imari designs. The finest pieces show exceptional quality of painting and perfect firing. Early examples from the 17th and 18th centuries are particularly valuable. Satsuma ware from the Meiji period, especially pieces by known artists, can command significant prices when finely decorated.
A Note About Ivory
The UK has one of the strictest bans on ivory trading in the world. The Ivory Act 2018, which came into force in June 2022, prohibits dealing in items made of or containing elephant ivory, regardless of their age, with a few very narrow exceptions.
The main exceptions are:
- Items with less than 10% ivory content made before 1947
- Musical instruments with less than 20% ivory content made before 1975
- Portrait miniatures at least 100 years old
- Items of outstanding artistic, cultural or historical significance made before 1918
- Sales to and between accredited museums
Anyone wishing to sell items under these exemptions must register them through the government’s ivory service and obtain certification. Breaking these laws can result in unlimited fines or up to five years in prison.
The ban aims to protect elephants by removing the UK from the global ivory market and reducing demand for ivory products. It’s important to note that the law applies to buying, selling and hiring – it does not make it illegal to own ivory items.

Everything You Need to Know Before Selling Your Asian Art
Selling a limited edition print can be a rewarding process, but understanding the key factors that influence value and the best methods for sale is essential. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process:
What is Asian art?
Asian art encompasses a vast range of artistic traditions spanning thousands of years across East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. This includes Chinese ceramics, paintings, and jade carvings; Japanese woodblock prints, screens, and netsuke; Korean celadon pottery and paintings; Vietnamese ceramics; Thai Buddhist sculptures; Indian miniature paintings and bronzes; and Tibetan thangkas.
Major categories include:
- Ceramics and porcelain (including Ming vases, Japanese tea bowls, Korean celadon)
- Paintings and calligraphy (scrolls, screens, traditional ink paintings)
- Sculptures (bronze, stone, wood – often Buddhist and Hindu figures)
- Decorative arts (jade, lacquerware, metalwork, textiles)
- Prints and woodblocks (particularly Japanese ukiyo-e)
- Religious art (Buddhist, Hindu, and other spiritual traditions)
The term covers both ancient artefacts and contemporary pieces, though antique works typically hold particular value in the international market. Each region has its own distinct artistic traditions, techniques, and materials that make their works uniquely identifiable to collectors.
How do I know if my Asian art is valuable?
The value of Asian art depends on several key factors, and professional assessment is often crucial for accurate valuation. Key elements that influence value include:
- Age and Period: Works from significant historical periods (such as Kangxi or Qianlong Dynasty porcelain) often command premium prices
- Condition: Original, undamaged pieces typically hold greater value than restored items
- Artist or Workshop: Items from prestigious imperial kilns like Jingdezhen, Dehua’s blanc de chine workshops, or the famous Kakiemon kilns of Japan can be particularly valuable
- Rarity: Unusual pieces such as Kangxi famille verte vases with rare colour combinations, Qianlong mark-and-period celadon jade carvings, or early Japanese Nabeshima porcelain tend to be more valuable
- Provenance: A clear history of ownership, especially from notable collections, can significantly enhance value
- Authentication: Genuine pieces from their stated period are worth substantially more than later reproductions
Where can I get my Asian art appraised?
You can get a free valuation of your Asian art from Mark Littler LTD by simply sending photos through our contact form. We handle the entire process – from initial valuation through to sale, either through private treaty or specialist auction, depending on what will achieve the best price. Our expertise and service is reflected in hundreds of five-star reviews from satisfied clients.
What are the different types of Asian art appraisals?
Different types of art appraisals serve distinct purposes:
- Auction/Sale Value: This determines the current market value for selling your piece. At Mark Littler LTD, we specialise in providing these valuations to help you achieve the best possible price when selling your Asian art.
- Insurance Value: Usually higher than market value, this helps determine coverage needed to replace items if lost or damaged.
- Probate Value: Required for estate tax purposes after someone passes away. Our sister company Swift Values can assist with probate valuations.
- Donation Value: Used for tax deduction purposes when donating to museums or charitable institutions.
- Replacement Value: Often used by insurers to determine the cost of replacing an item in today’s market.
At Mark Littler LTD, we focus exclusively on sale valuations to help you understand your piece’s current market value and achieve the best possible price when selling.

When Is the Best Time to Sell Asian Art?
The Asian art market has evolved significantly over the past decade. While prices peaked around 2014, today’s market remains robust but more discerning. Rather than waiting for another peak that may not return due to changed global dynamics, focus instead on presenting your piece to the right buyers through the most appropriate channels.
Where Can I Sell My Asian Art?
Given the unique nature of most Asian art pieces, specialist auctions typically offer the best route to market:
- Specialist Auctions: These are crucial for Asian art. The right auction house can make a dramatic difference – there are numerous examples of pieces selling for millions at one auction house, only to achieve multiple millions when later resold through a more appropriate specialist auction. The key is matching your piece with the auction house that has the right collector base and expertise.
- Private Sales: While possible for certain pieces, private sales are less common in the Asian art market due to the unique nature of most items making price comparison difficult.
Why Choose the Right Auction House?
Research and market positioning are critical factors when selling Asian art. At Mark Littler LTD, we help you navigate:
- Identifying the most appropriate specialist auction house for your specific piece
- Understanding which sale calendar dates attract the strongest bidding
- Ensuring your piece reaches the right collector base
- Managing the entire process from consignment through to sale
The key to achieving the best result isn’t about timing the market – it’s about ensuring your piece reaches the right collectors through the most appropriate specialist auction. Our expertise helps ensure your Asian art is positioned for the best possible outcome in today’s market.
How Mark Littler LTD Help

Send us details about your item using the form above.

We contact our international network of customers for the best offers.

We’ll send you a valuation together with any offers we received and give you advice on how best to sell.

Need help with the logistics? We have a fully insured courier service available.

Simply sit back and wait for the funds to arrive.