Ai, 53, is one of China's most famous and controversial artists, who currently has an exhibition at London's Tate Modern. He also is an outspoken critic of the country's Communist rulers.
"My house arrest was supposed to last until midnight last night. In fact, the police left at about 11:00 pm," Ai told AFP.
The action against Ai comes amid a widespread crackdown on dissidents, lawyers and professors after jailed writer Liu Xiaobo was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize last month.
While the artist was not allowed to leave his home over the weekend, others including reporters were able to visit him.
Ai had planned a feast for supporters at his Shanghai studio on Sunday as an ironic celebration of a decision by authorities to demolish the building -- despite having originally asked him to build it.
Supporters said on Twitter that hundreds had shown up at the studio.
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