Xincuo

Xincuo

Xincuo is also known as Shangcuo. It neighbors Shangxin Cuo and is closest to the entrance of Xiashan Village, with its southern side facing the Wen Chuan Stream. During the Anti-Japanese War, it was once the former residence of a judge.

Research indicates that Xincuo was built by Liu Xigui (the second branch of Tianzan, the fourth son of Qizhong from the seventh generation of Jishan, courtesy name Gongshou). It is a one-story wooden structure with a hip-and-gable roof, originally consisting of a three-courtyard layout. The first courtyard (Chunting) has been destroyed; the second courtyard features a patio with one study room on each side and two wing rooms with inner chambers. The third courtyard's main hall has seven bays, totaling twenty-four rooms. On the left door panel of the main hall, there is an academic notice indicating that Liu Tingzuo ranked second in the imperial examination.

Xincuo faces a sitting orientation of Zi Mountain and Wu Direction, with a slight deviation towards Ren and Bing, specifically at Bingzi and Bingwu. It sits at the second degree of the Weisuo star and faces the fourth degree of the Zhang star. The patio drains water towards the Ding direction. In front of the house is a single layer of case mountain, with two layers of facing mountains. The Si and Bing directions feature the Nanshan flag and elegant brush peaks, symbolizing official stars and minor scholarly nobility. However, the fetal direction at Bingwu has overly prominent peaks, suggesting delayed achievements in fame but success in later years. According to feng shui sand theory, both the sitting and facing directions are fire sands, which are harmonious and prosperous. When the right year cycle arrives, it indicates initial wealth followed by nobility, longevity, and a thriving household. The facing direction’s peak at Wu belongs to the Lianzheng fire; caution is advised against fire hazards (according to the owner, a near-fire incident occurred due to children playing with fire).

The courtyard gate sits at You Direction and faces Mao, with a slight deviation towards Geng and Jia, specifically at Dingyou and Xinyou. It sits at the third degree of the Ang star and faces the sixteenth degree of the Shi star. The courtyard drains water towards the Xun direction. The year Bingxu, during the eighth luck cycle, brings prosperity in descendants but not in wealth accumulation.

In the patio of Xincuo, a large iron tree is planted on the left. It is said to be two to three hundred years old. The tree has a diameter of about forty centimeters and a height of approximately two meters. Although its trunk is covered with moss, it remains lush and full of vitality.

Xincuo displays four horizontal plaques for birthday celebrations. Among them, the central plaque in the main hall is inscribed with the four large characters: "Bing Qing Yue Ying" (Ice Clear Moon Reflection). The front eaves lintel of the main hall hangs a plaque reading "Zhang Chao Ren Rui" (Elder Reaching the Age for a Cane). The second courtyard’s screen wall is inscribed with "Sheng Shi Hong Guang" (Splendor of a Prosperous Era), and the front eaves lintel of the second courtyard is inscribed with "Tian Ban Zhu Xia" (Crimson Clouds in the Sky), among other plaques.

Birthday celebration activities have a long history and reflect the traditional Chinese virtues of respecting the elderly

"Shou" (longevity) refers to someone who is advanced in years, respected, has accomplished children, or has made certain contributions to the country or society. As common knowledge, the main difference between a birthday celebration and other festive occasions is that one cannot send out invitations in their own name to have others celebrate their birthday—this should be arranged by their children or relatives and friends. Typically, when celebrating the birthdays of parents, the gathering includes close family and friends with whom there is frequent interaction, and a home banquet suffices. If living in a city where home conditions are limited, the celebration can also be held at a restaurant, but cost-effectiveness should be considered, avoiding extravagance and waste. It is important to avoid excessive ostentation or sending out too many invitations just to collect gifts.

When celebrating the birthdays of parents, emphasis should be placed on practicality—such as buying clothes, bedding, shoes, or hats that ensure the elderly wear them comfortably. Special care should be given to elderly family members who are ill, ensuring they receive timely treatment. Consider gifting tonics or effective medication for chronic illnesses as birthday presents. Make their birthday a happier one.

During the birthday celebration, a large red-and-gold "Shou" (longevity) character is usually displayed in the center of the main hall wall. For a man’s birthday, the Southern Pole Immortal (Nanji Xianweng) is often hung. Legend has it that the Old God of Longevity once studied Taoism in Kunlun under the master Yuan Shi Tianzun. After completing his studies, his master struck his head with a treasure box, which then magically entered his skull like a auspicious flower. Since then, he has taken on the familiar appearance we see today: a high forehead, long head, a cheerful expression, and the image of a white-bearded elder with a long beard leaning on a long cane. For a woman’s birthday, the Queen Mother of the West from Yaochi is often displayed. Alternatively, regardless of gender, an Eight Immortals Celebrating Longevity painting or scrolls symbolizing longevity such as the “Three Stars of Fortune, Prosperity, and Longevity” (Fu, Lu, Shou) may be used.

In folklore, the turtle, crane, and deer are all symbols of good fortune for birthdays. Legend says the turtle can live for tens of thousands of years. Hence, Cao Cao wrote in his poem "Though the Turtle Lives Long," including the line "though the divine turtle may live long." Birthday wishes often include phrases like "turtle and crane extend life" or "turtle and crane enjoy long life." The crane is frequently used in birthday blessings due to the saying "the crane lives a thousand years." During birthday celebrations, the "Pine and Crane Painting" is often displayed. The graceful image of the crane and the robust pine tree complement each other, adding elegance to the birthday venue. The deer is also a symbol of longevity, as ancient legends describe it as an immortal creature. Therefore, modern depictions of the God of Longevity not only include the learned and immortal Nanji Xianweng embodying fortune, prosperity, and longevity but also feature the sacred turtle, golden deer, white crane, and green pine. The commonly hung God of Longevity paintings in folk birthday celebrations reflect people’s aspirations for a long life, symbolizing reunion, happiness, and good fortune.