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Monday 27th January 2025 - Sharna Bennett
Chinese New Year is one of the most celebrated festivals in the world. But what makes it so fascinating?
With a history spanning over 4,000 years, it is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and traditions. It is a time to honour ancestors, welcome new beginnings, and gather with loved ones.
At Easy Live Auction, we’re excited to celebrate this season by highlighting upcoming Chinese lots and exploring the rich culture and history behind this long-cherished festival.
Chinese New Year marks the beginning of the lunisolar calendar, with the date varying each year based on the cycles of the moon. It typically falls between January 21st and February 20th. The celebration, typically known as the “Spring Festival” lasts for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival, when families light lanterns and enjoy vibrant parades.
The festival is steeped in traditions that represent prosperity, happiness, and good fortune. Homes are cleaned to sweep away bad luck, red decorations and couplets are hung to invite positivity, incense is burned, and families enjoy feasts.
According to tradition, people will light incense during the Chinese New Year festival as an offering to honour their ancestors.
This Chinese porcelain incense burner, hand-painted with mythical beasts, can be found in Eastbourne Auctions’ February Live Online Auction, 11th-14th February from 9:30am GMT.
Chinese New Year has a fascinating origin story.
According to legend, a mythical beast named Nian (a fierce flat-faced lion-like beast that lives under the sea or in the mountains) would emerge at the end of the year to attack villagers. To protect themselves, people discovered that loud noises, bright lights, and the colour red would scare the creature away. These practices evolved into modern traditions like firecrackers, lion dances, and the widespread use of red decorations.
A Chinese Sang de Boef vase, of plain baluster form, with a rich red glaze. Find this lot in Aubreys’ 30th January sale, commencing 10am GMT.
Each year in the Chinese calendar is associated with one of the 12 zodiac animals. These animals are believed to influence personality traits and fortunes, much like our own astrological signs. For example, the Year of the Dragon symbolises strength and ambition, while the Year of the Rabbit represents peace and prosperity. Incorporating zodiac motifs in art and decor is a long-standing tradition, and collectors often seek out these items at auction.
Be sure to check Easy Live Auction for zodiac-themed collectibles that could add a touch of history and culture to your collection.
Various Chinese zodiac silver coins with three collector's cases. This lot is featured in The Great Western Auctions’ 2-day Antiques & Collectables sale, 29th-30th January from 10am GMT.
The year 2025 is the Year of the Snake, a zodiac sign associated with wisdom, intuition, and grace. In Chinese culture, snakes are seen as symbols of intelligence and transformation. Those born in the Year of the Snake are often thought to possess a calm and thoughtful demeanour.
This zodiac sign has been beautifully represented in art, jewellery, and other decorative items for centuries.
For those who appreciate the artistry and the culture of Chinese New Year, auctions are a fantastic way to find meaningful items. Popular lots include:
Easy Live Auction regularly hosts auctions that feature these unique and culturally significant items. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of tradition to your home or seeking a rare collector’s piece, our platform connects you to auction houses offering exceptional Chinese lots.
An Attractive Pair of Chinese Export Vases and Covers, with Buddhist lion finials to the covers — Qianlong. This lot can be found in Dreweatts’ Art & Interiors sale, commencing 6th February from 10:30am GMT.
At Easy Live Auction, we’re passionate about helping you find your dream pieces while celebrating the myriad diverse cultures and histories that make up the beautiful treasures found at auction. This Chinese New Year, immerse yourself in the traditions and stories of this vibrant holiday by exploring upcoming auctions.
If you have an interest in Chinese antiques or the symbolism behind New Year’s decorations, Easy Live Auction makes it easy to browse, bid, buy, and bring this ancient culture into your life.
Chinese, 18th century - A Qing dynasty kesi roundel rank badge, or ‘puxi,’ depicting a full-faced five-claw dragon. Find this lot in Sloane Street Auctions’ 6th February sale, starting 10:30am GMT.
