The Monument to the Chastity and Filial Piety of Madam Shen, Wife of Xu Simai

　　This monument was built in the 52nd year of the Qianlong reign during the Qing Dynasty. It is entirely constructed from stone, featuring an elegant and classic design, exquisite carvings, and beautiful calligraphy. It is a typical example of Qing Dynasty stone archway architecture, with high ornamental and artistic value. The archway has four pillars and three gates, with the central bay being 3.0 meters wide and the side bays 1.0 meter wide. The total length of the base pillars from north to south is 9.0 meters. Stone piles are placed on both sides of the pillars for reinforcement. These stone piles are adorned with carved stone lions, each with a unique posture. The main pillars and the reinforced stone piles are also engraved with various geometric patterns and historical scenes. On the front of the pillars are two couplets:

　　“Snow fills the Jade Pool, her decades of pure virtue shine brightly; the phoenix returns to the painted gate, imperial decrees of glory span thousands of years.” and “The green-bound volumes diligently record her steadfast will; the purple edicts gloriously immortalize her on stone.”

　　The crossbeams of the monument are carved with a variety of vivid and uniquely styled patterns that are exquisitely crafted. Between the three horizontal beams are two large plaques inscribed with “Imperial Praise for Chastity and Filial Piety” and “Monument Commemorating Madam Shen, Wife of the Grand Scholar Xu Simai, for Her Chastity and Filial Piety.” The eaves are carved to imitate wooden structures, higher in the center and lower on the sides, with distinct layers and clever interlocking. The upturned corners and intricate details give it a classic, elegant, and majestic presence. At the center of the archway’s eave hangs a “Sacred Edict” plaque, measuring 50 centimeters diagonally and 30 centimeters in width. Despite over two hundred years having passed, the monument remains largely intact. It has slightly tilted due to earthquakes.