一、Introduction

 

The Temple of Chen Family, also known as Chen Clan Academy, is a remarkable tourist attraction in China. Built in 1894 by the Chen families in Guangdong Province, it serves as an ancestral temple, a place for clannish activities, and a school. In 1959, it was converted into the Guangdong Folk Art Museum.

Covering an area of 15,000 square meters with a floor space of 6,400 square meters, the Temple of Chen Family is constructed in the traditional Chinese architectural style. It is symmetrically laid out with the longitudinal central line as the axis, and the structures on one side exactly correspond to those on the other. Its wide-open main halls and lattice-walled wing-rooms are interspaced by courtyards and connected by corridors. Huge suspended or floor screens and solid brick walls are used as partitions between halls and courtyards and between rooms, creating an artistic effect of being structurally compact yet appearing spacious and magnificent. It also produces a contrasting effect of the big with the small, the high with the low, the open with the hidden, and the true with the false. Another feature of the temple structure is that all the houses have gable roofs with two slopes to drain away rainwater, which is the traditional roof structure style corresponding to houses for common people and temple buildings in old China.

 

In the feudal society of old China, a strict hierarchy was formed. Under this social estate system, everything was rigidly stratified. The size, height, color of a house, and even the style of its roof must match the social status of its owner or user. For example, in the former imperial palaces, all the back houses for servants and soldiers are low and gable-roofed with grey tiles, while the main buildings in the middle have yellow roofs with slopes on four sides. While being constructed in the national style of architecture, the Temple of Chen Family is unique in its decoration style characteristic of Guangdong Province. Stone-carvings, brick-carvings, lime sculptures, ceramic figurines, wood-carvings, and artistic objects of iron-casting can be found everywhere. They are made into flowers and trees, insects and birds, animals and human figures, and even architectural complexes. These works of art are not only for decoration but also symbols or implications of various things or depictions of scenes from Chinese history and legends. For instance, the peony flower symbolizes richness and wealth, the twin lotus flowers on one stalk stand for an affectionate couple, and the lion sculpture represents power and dignity.

二、Location and Significance

The Temple of Chen Family is located in Zhongshan Qi Road, Guangzhou. It holds great significance as a comprehensive expression of exquisite Guangdong folk arts and crafts. It reflects the cultural heritage and historical traditions of the region.

 

This remarkable tourist attraction serves as a living testament to the rich artistic traditions of Guangdong. The intricate stone-carvings, brick-carvings, lime sculptures, ceramic figurines, wood-carvings, and iron-casting artworks found throughout the temple not only adorn the architecture but also symbolize various things and depict scenes from Chinese history and legends.

 

As an important part of Guangdong's cultural landscape, the Temple of Chen Family showcases the unique blend of traditional Chinese architectural style with the distinctive decoration style characteristic of Guangdong Province. It stands as a symbol of the region's openness, inclusiveness, and creativity in the field of art and culture.

 

The significance of the temple extends beyond its aesthetic value. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the history and traditions of Guangdong, gaining a deeper understanding of the region's cultural heritage. It also serves as a source of inspiration for contemporary artists and designers, who draw on its rich artistic traditions to create new works.

In conclusion, the Temple of Chen Family's location in Guangzhou and its significance as a repository of Guangdong folk arts and crafts make it a must-visit destination for tourists and art enthusiasts alike.

三、Architectural Features

1. Layout

The Temple of Chen Family has a remarkable layout. Covering an area of 15,000 square meters with a floor space of 6,400 square meters, it is constructed in traditional Chinese architectural style. The layout is symmetrical, with the longitudinal central line as the axis. This creates an artistic effect of being structurally compact while also appearing spacious and magnificent. The wide-open main halls and lattice-walled wing-rooms are interspaced by courtyards and connected by corridors. Huge suspended or floor screens and solid brick walls serve as partitions between halls and courtyards and between rooms.

2. Roof Style

The houses within the Temple of Chen Family all feature gable roofs with two slopes. This roof style is a traditional one that corresponds to old Chinese houses and temple buildings. It is designed to efficiently drain rainwater.

四、Decorations

1. Artworks Everywhere

The Temple of Chen Family is a treasure trove of art. Stone-carvings, brick-carvings, lime sculptures, ceramic figurines, wood-carvings, and iron-casting artworks are ubiquitous within its premises. These art forms are crafted into a diverse array of shapes and designs. According to the concept of symbolism, these artworks not only serve as decorative elements but also hold significant symbolic meanings. They depict scenes from Chinese history and legends, adding a rich cultural and historical dimension to the temple.

2. Examples of Decorations

For instance, the peony flower, a common decoration in the temple, symbolizes richness and wealth. Its vibrant colors and intricate details bring a sense of opulence to the surroundings. The twin lotus flowers stand for an affectionate couple, representing love and harmony. The lion sculpture, with its majestic appearance, represents power and dignity. These decorations not only beautify the temple but also convey deep cultural connotations and values.

五、Outside the Main Entrance

1. Stone Lions and Unicorn-like Animal

Two granite lion statues stand majestically outside the main entrance of the Temple of Chen Family. One lion is playing a ball, symbolizing the male and power. The other is patting a baby lion, representing the female and dignity. These stone lions not only add an air of grandeur to the entrance but also carry deep symbolic meanings.

 

On the roof, there is a unicorn-like animal, a fictitious beast peculiar to Guangdong Province. Created to expel evil spirits during natural calamities in the Ming Dynasty, it serves as a protective symbol for the temple.

2. Sculpture of Gourds

As one approaches the main entrance, the sculpture of gourds catches the eye. This token of a flourishing family represents the desire for continuous growth and multiplication of the Chen family. The gourd sculpture is a beautiful and meaningful addition to the exterior of the temple.

3. Masterpieces of Brick-carving

On either side of the main entrance, brick-carved pictures showcase the artistry of Guangdong brick-carving. These pictures depict stories from Chinese historical novels and are representative works of this traditional art form. The intricate details and vivid depictions make these brick carvings true masterpieces.

六、Tourist Experience

1. Visiting All Scenic Spots

The Temple of Chen Family offers visitors an opportunity to explore all its famous tourist attractions and immerse themselves in the rich history and culture. As you wander through the temple, you can admire the intricate architecture, marvel at the various artworks, and soak in the atmosphere of this remarkable place. From the majestic stone lions at the entrance to the beautiful brick carvings and the unique roof styles, every corner of the temple holds a story.

2. Package Tours

Travel agencies offer all-inclusive packages for those looking for a convenient travel experience. These packages often include transportation, accommodation, and guided tours of the Temple of Chen Family and other nearby attractions. With a package tour, you can sit back and relax while everything is taken care of, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip.

3. Nearby Tourist Attractions

The Temple of Chen Family is surrounded by other tourist attractions, making it a part of a rich tourist destination. Nearby, you might find historical sites, museums, and beautiful parks. For example, you could visit local markets to experience the vibrant culture and sample delicious local cuisine. Exploring these nearby attractions can enhance your overall travel experience and give you a deeper understanding of the area.

七、Conclusion

 

The Temple of Chen Family is truly a remarkable destination that offers a rich experience for tourists. Its unique combination of traditional Chinese architecture and distinctive Guangdong decoration style makes it a standout among China's tourist attractions.

 

Visitors who come to the Temple of Chen Family are not only treated to a visual feast of beautiful architecture and intricate artworks but also get a chance to immerse themselves in China's rich cultural heritage. The temple serves as a living testament to the skills and creativity of past generations, and its historical significance cannot be overstated.

 

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking for a unique travel experience, the Temple of Chen Family is a must-visit. It is a place where you can appreciate the beauty and complexity of traditional Chinese architecture, learn about the cultural traditions and history of Guangdong Province, and gain a deeper understanding of China's rich cultural heritage.

 

In conclusion, the Temple of Chen Family is a gem that should not be missed. Its unique architecture, beautiful decorations, and historical significance make it a true treasure of China's tourist attractions.