Ye Family Residence in Sanmenyuan

　　Location: Longyou County, Quzhou City, Zhejiang Province

　　This residence is a fine example of late Qing Dynasty architecture. Built in 1846 by local villager Ye Hetian after he earned the title of Imperial Scholarship Recipient, the structure faces west and is nestled against a hillside. Originally consisting of five main buildings, three remain today. Their gate plaques are inscribed with “Zhilan Enter the Seat,” “Everlasting Prosperity of Azalea Blossoms,” and “Spring Surrounds the Walls,” and the complex includes courtyards, gardens, and ponds, covering an area of 4,500 square meters.

　　The Ye family architectural complex features a rigorous layout, refined design, grand scale, and ingenious composition, preserving the typical style of mid-to-late Qing Dynasty residences in the Jiangnan region. The pillars and beams in the halls are thick and sturdy, with unique roof truss structures. Ceilings, beams, corridors, and window lattices are all intricately carved, gilded, and painted. A central courtyard is used to regulate drainage, ventilation, and indoor lighting. Despite high walls and deep rooms, air circulates well, making the space bright and comfortable. Among them, “Zhilan Enter the Seat” is the most exquisitely designed, featuring a three-courtyard layout with two open halls, and is considered a masterpiece among residential buildings.

　　Artistic brick carvings are the highlight of the Ye family buildings. All three main gates are inlaid with brick carvings depicting pavilions, landscapes, animals, flowers, and birds. Among these, 23 opera-themed brick carvings, each measuring 56 cm by 26 cm, depict individual scenes from traditional plays. With exquisite relief carving and hollow techniques, vivid designs, and rare craftsmanship, they are treasured cultural relics and valuable resources for the study of traditional opera.