The Qunfeng Zhanhu residence was constructed by Tong Guilin, a juren (scholar) during the Qing Qianlong period (1736-1795 AD). Mimicking the story of ‘Meng Mu San Qian’, he chose a location next to the academy ‘Chi Mu Caotang’, making it a representative of ancient official residences. The symmetrical horse-head walls on both sides of the front exude an air of ‘Five Mountains Paying Homage to Heaven’, with the walls adorned with ‘Qunfeng Zhanhu’ and ‘Clear Stream Reflecting’, showcasing the unique geographical location and the master’s broad-mindedness. Above the main door, two ‘Five Blessings’ blue and white porcelains are embedded, hence the residence is also known as the ‘Five Blessings at the Door’ residence. The two upside-down town-house lions symbolize ‘Everything Goes Well’. Inside the courtyard, the latticed wooden windows are carved with various patterns filled with the owner’s aspirations. The origin of the residence’s name and the exquisite relief wood carvings are a concentrated display of Tong’s profound farming and reading culture.
The name ‘Qunfeng Zhanhu’ and the intricate relief wood carvings are testaments to Tong Guilin’s deep-rooted farming and reading culture, reflecting his aspirations and values.
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