Guangzhou Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: An Artistic Epic on the Eaves of Lingnan

When you step into the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, your eyes are naturally drawn to the towering roofs. The museum, which was converted from the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, is a masterpiece in itself, and its roof is the pinnacle of Lingnan architectural art. The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is a temple built in strict accordance with the patriarchal etiquette system. Also known as the "Chen Clan Academy", it was built during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty and is one of the largest existing traditional Guangfu buildings. The ridges, gables, eaves, side rooms, and corridor roofs of the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall are all made of ceramic and gray sculptures, with rich colors and a strong folk art style. The tail of the aoyu (a mythical fish) on the ridge of the roof is raised, symbolizing the hope of being the best. The lion sculptures are also eye-catching. They are not fierce, but rather resemble the lions in the lion dance during festivals in Guangdong, cute and lively. In addition, there are rows of lifelike ceramic sculptures of people, including civil and military officials, fishermen, and woodcutters, forming a vivid picture of Lingnan folk customs. These ceramic sculptures have withstood the test of time, and their colors are still as bright as ever, as if telling ancient stories. Walking along the corridor, the gray sculptures on the eaves are dazzling. Groups of mythological stories and historical allusions unfold on the eaves. The craftsmen use delicate brushstrokes to turn flat stories into three-dimensional art. In the exhibition hall of the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, there are also many folk crafts, such as Shiwan ceramics, Guangcai porcelain, ivory carvings, Cantonese embroidery, Guangzhou wood carvings, brick carvings, stone carvings, etc., all of which are exquisite. They not only show the Lingnan craftsmen's understanding of traditional culture, but also reflect their unique aesthetic taste. Standing in the center of the courtyard and looking up, the entire roof is like a three-dimensional painting of Lingnan customs. The intricate carvings are not just simple decorations, but a concrete expression of the spiritual world of the Lingnan people. They have condensed their good wishes, wisdom of life, and pursuit of art into this eave. During the Spring Festival, lanterns are hung high in the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, adding to the traditional features, as if telling every visitor about the depth and splendor of Lingnan culture. This museum not only preserves the folk art of Lingnan, but also guards the artistic soul of an era. Tips: Location: The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is located on Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, near Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Station. Tickets: CNY 10 per ticket, free for minors, reservation required.