How to Source Chinese Antiques

Sourcing authentic Chinese antiques is very difficult.  Chinese antiques over 250 years old are illegal to export out of China and illegal to import into the U.S. To find Chinese antiques in the U.S., you need to find pieces that were imported into the U.S. prior to 2009.  About 90 percent of what you see on sale online are fakes.

Education.  Research what you are looking for, especially little details used in China that is unique to Western production techniques.  For example: Ming vase is decorated with cobalt blue which sometimes clumps during firing.

• As of 2009, all imports of Chinese antiques were blocked from entering the U.S. and China, including Hong Kong. 


• There are many antique brokerage houses inside China and they are selling their antiques to "nouveaux riche" in China. 


• Any "genuine antiques" you see online being sold from Hong Kong is a guaranteed reproduction.  Let the buyer beware.


• Prior to the blockade in 2009, many artifacts entered the U.S. particularly during the early part of the 20th century.  

Specialists.  Look for antique shops that specialize in Asian antiques or an auction house the at deals in exclusive items; Christy's for example.  These places are registered antique dealers. 

• Research whether they have ever been convicted in knowingly liquidating smuggled artifacts. 


• Only buy through reputable art dealers or auction houses.


• Research their history through The Department of Consumer Affairs and the BBB.


• Remember this is a fraud riddled industry.

Verification.  Ask for verification of authenticity and documentation of ownership.

• Look for photos of the piece in Chinese art history books. 


• When you view and bid or purchase the piece, hire an appraiser to attend with you.