One of China's biggest art auction houses opens its autumn season on December 1. 

The "Thatched Cottage of Dadi," a painting by late Chinese artist Fu Baoshi, is expected to be the highlight of the season at the China Guardian auction house.

It depicts Shi Tao – another classical Chinese painter – looking at a tree outside a hut.

Fu Baoshi was a great admirer of Shi Tao.

When he was 18 years old, he changed his name to "Baoshi" – meaning to embrace "Shi Tao."

Dai Wei, general manager of the Calligraphy and Painting Department of Guardian Auction, said: "This painting signifies the formation and beginning of Fu Baoshi's style. He was known for researching art history. From this painting, his creations got smoother, until he could handle various kinds of subjects. Therefore, this piece is a milestone in his career. It's considered a type of spiritual support in his life and the source of energy for all his creations."

Three months after its spring auction, Guardian Auction has collected over 5,000 items. And this time, three pieces are expected to be sold for above 100 million yuan ($15 million), including a masterpiece by the Song Dynasty poet Zhu Dunru.

Kui Suo Tie translates to "long time no see." It's a nearly 900-year-old letter written by Zhu Dunru for a close friend far away.

He's an important figure in the history of Chinese poetry and calligraphy.

"Among the four surviving pieces of Zhu Dunru's calligraphy work, this letter is the best-kept one, with the largest size in terms of content and word count," said Luan Jingli, general manager of Classical Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Department of Guardian Auction. "It clearly showcases the value of both literature and calligraphy. The words and expressions also give the audience a glimpse into the poet's personality and character, so this piece is very precious."

Other pieces at the auction range from porcelain wares to furniture and jewelry – a feast for diverse art collectors.

The autumn auction at China Guardian runs through December 6.