Jian Pavilion

Jian Pavilion

“Jian Pavilion” is located south of “Lai Xu Pavilion.” It was proposed for construction by Xu Yaoguang. The plaque of “Jian Pavilion” was inscribed by Tang Yun (1910–1993). Having received such deep respect and affection from the people upon leaving his post in Jiaxing, Xu Yaoguang felt deeply uneasy. In his farewell message, he requested the construction of “Jian Pavilion.” “Jian” means “admonition,” and “Pavilion” here is interpreted as “proper handling,” and he personally composed and wrote the “Inscription of Jian Pavilion,” which was engraved on a stele and placed inside “Jian Pavilion.”

The “Inscription of Jian Pavilion” consists of 373 characters and summarizes the principles of conduct for officials and individuals in five aspects, advising people to cherish time, properly manage various conflicts, maintain personal integrity, and practice self-discipline. Its content still holds certain educational significance in today’s society.

On the two side pillars of the “Inscription of Jian Pavilion” is a couplet: “This water connects to the ancient Wu region; alas, the tides disperse—who will clear the lingering miasma of western Zhe? This tower shares my name with Mount Guì; amid misty rain, I recognize the South Lake as my homeland.” It was composed and inscribed by Xu Zexun (1874–1930). It praises the scenic beauty of South Lake while also expressing anxiety about the political situation.

Over the long course of history, the Lake Heart Island has attracted many literati, scholars, poets, and artists, who came here to paint, compose poetry, and create calligraphy. Among their works were many widely loved couplets. This is just one of them—since I took a photo, I’ll elaborate a bit.

Inside “Jian Pavilion” is also displayed the precious “Horse Deed Stone Carving.” The origin of the “Horse Deed” and the exact time it was engraved can no longer be confirmed. According to old records, Jiaxing had this “Horse Deed Stone Carving” as early as the Ming Dynasty. Regarding the “Horse Deed,” there is a story: when the great Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo served as prefect of Hangzhou, he saw that his friend Li Fangshu was living in poverty, so he gave Li his imperial-bestowed fine horse. He allowed Li to sell it to cover living expenses. Worried that selling an imperial gift might bring disaster, Su specially wrote the “Horse Deed” as proof.

Later, Su Dongpo’s brother Su Zhe and his good friend Huang Tingjian both composed poems and inscribed colophons for the “Horse Deed,” making it even more valuable. The generous and heartfelt stories of literary friendship among Su Dongpo and others became celebrated anecdotes in literary circles. With the Two Sus and one Huang—all great literary figures of the Song Dynasty—and Li Fangshu also being a notable scholar, the “Horse Deed” can be described as a collaboration of famous figures and masterpieces, enhancing each other’s prestige, making it especially rare.

The back wall of “Jian Pavilion” is inlaid with the “Mi Fu Stele.” “The dragon tower catches the light of dawn, the Lu hall opens its morning doors. Bright sun paints heavy makeup shadows, low stars descend with the glow of Wu. The jade courtyard floats with auspicious hues, the silver plaque adds blessed insignia. Clouds shift as flowers veil the canopy, rosy clouds drift as leaves adorn the flags.” It is said to be the authentic work of Mi Fu. When Jian Pavilion was built, Xu Yaoguang obtained this authentic piece, treasured it greatly, had someone make a traced engraving, and inlaid it here for people to admire.