Xu Ge’s Wife Lady Liu’s Chastity and Filial Piety Archway

　　The archway is entirely constructed of stone and was built in the 60th year of the Qianlong reign during the Qing Dynasty. It is 9.0 meters long at the base and features four pillars and three gates. Each of the four pillars is reinforced by two stone columns. The reinforcing columns are adorned with stone-carved lions. The central gate has three crossbeams, all intricately carved. Between the crossbeams hang two long plaques inscribed with “Imperial Decree Commending Chastity and Filial Piety” and “Chastity and Filial Piety Archway Honoring Lady Liu, Wife of Local Scholar Xu Ge.” Below the eaves of the archway hangs an elaborately carved plaque bearing the inscription “Imperial Edict.” Both sides of the archway feature identical carvings and are inscribed with four pairs of parallel couplets.

　　They are:

　　Inspiration descends as white cranes arrive in a moment

　　Loyal spirits endure through centuries on dark crowns

　　Filial piety reaches imperial notice, crimson tubes glow with the hues of imperial decrees

　　Chastity honors the daylily, fragrant orchids and osmanthus bloom from green streams

　　Gales may come, yet sturdy grass stands firm

　　Even if cold moon shines, tall pines remain serene

　　White-haired, she kept her vow — like pine defying frost, her heart even more resolute

　　Young-hearted, she pledged her will — like bamboo reaching the clouds, her integrity grows ever higher

　　The archway suffered some damage during the Cultural Revolution but remains relatively intact, retaining its high artistic and aesthetic value.