3. Peach Blossom Spring, by Zhang Daqian (1899-1983), HK$270 million

Rainy Landscape by Wu Zhen, recognized as one of the "Four Masters of Yuan", fetched 172.5 million yuan in early December in Beijing.

The painting had been kept in the hands of several connoisseurs since Yuan, according to reviews and seals left on the painting. Such a sound lineage of collecting history helps today's collectors determine its value.

The cultural depth of antique calligraphy has also attracted more bidders recently. Jieshi Tie, a Song Dynasty (960-1127) calligraphy letter of 124 characters grossed 207 million yuan at a Beijing auction in May.

Its writer Zeng Gong is considered among the eight masters of prose of the Tang (AD 618-907) and Song dynasties who also include Su Shi and Wang Anshi. Very few of his writing pieces still exist, hence the letter was sought-after.