Huizhou Brick Carving

Huizhou Brick Carving

　　The brick carvings of Huizhou, Anhui (now She County, Anhui), have a long history, exquisite craftsmanship, and a unique style, renowned both in China and abroad. They are mainly used on gate towers, door hoods, upturned eaves, and column bases. Ancient brick carvings were mostly in relief, with a few in line engraving. Huizhou architecture typically features grayish-blue ridges and roofs, snow-white plastered walls, and polished blue brick door hoods, gate towers, and upturned eaves. Thresholds and the raised base of houses (elevated one or two feet above ground level) are often made of blue stone or hemp stone, while some also use polished blue bricks laid flat and then fixed to the wooden door surface with round-headed rivets. In such an integrated architectural structure, the brick carvings are embedded in perfect harmony. The designs of Huizhou brick carvings include flowers and birds, figures, opera scenes, daily life, and auspicious motifs. The craftsmanship is delicate, the carving neat, the lines smooth, the themes prominent, and the layers distinct. The Anhui Provincial Museum houses masterpieces of Huizhou brick carving such as "Guo Ziyi Celebrates His Birthday" and "One Hundred Children," showcasing exceptional artistry.