Cai Family Chastity Archway

Cai Family Chastity Archway

The Cai Family Chastity Archway is a cultural relic protection unit of Hubei Province.

Cai Family Chastity Archway

Located in Sanquan Village, Xianju Township, Dongbao District, Jingmen City. Constructed in the 11th year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1746) and named by Emperor Gaozong Hongli, it is a four-pillared, three-bay stone archway with a wooden-style structure, facing south, and measuring 5.6 meters in width and 7 meters in height. The central panel on the front is inscribed in regular script with the words “Commemorating the Chastity and Filial Piety of Madam Cai, the First Wife of Scholar Liao Kai.” Drum-shaped stones and stone lions are placed at the base of the pillars. The panels are adorned with relief carvings of auspicious patterns. The archway is exquisitely crafted and has been praised as “a marvel surpassing nature” and “a stunning feat in stone carving.” (Fifth Batch)

Source: Hubei Provincial Cultural Relics Bureau

Further Reading:

· Fifth Batch of Hubei Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units