Former Residence of Li Jifu

　　The former residence of Li Jifu is situated at No. 12 Huayuan Road, Heping District, spanning 5,429 square meters. It was designed by Swiss architect Lü Fu of the Loyal Engineering Company and is a group of buildings in the style of an English-style courtyard. The main building was constructed in 1918, built with a brick-and-wood structure, two stories high with a basement.

　　Li Jifu was the comprador of the British firm Dent & Co. His residence combines both Eastern and Western architectural features. The exterior features predominantly red brick with exposed masonry, and the entrance porch consists of three continuous arches, beneath which are circular decorative openings. At the center of the courtyard is a fountain, with large flower stands at each corner. The entire architectural layout is luxurious and imposing. The interior includes bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, a study, bathrooms, and more, with wooden flooring in every room—bright, clean, and airy. The surrounding courtyard is filled with greenery and flowers, and the southern side is enclosed by an iron-fenced wall. This large street-facing residence boasts an elegant design, serene surroundings, and a grand, luxurious ambiance. It is a fine example of modern architecture decorated with classical techniques.

　　

　　Li Jifu (758~814)　　Li Jifu (758–814), courtesy name Hongxian, was a politician and geographer of the Tang Dynasty, hailing from Zanhuang in Zhao Commandery (modern-day Zanhuang, Hebei). He was the son of Censor-in-Chief Li Qiyun. Li Jifu came from the Western Branch of the Zhao Clan of Zhao Commandery and entered officialdom early through hereditary privilege. He held various positions including Granary Attendant of the Left Imperial Guards Command, Doctor of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, Assistant Director of Tuntian (Land Reclamation), Prefectural Historian of Mingzhou, Prefect of Zhongzhou, Prefect of Liuzhou, Director of Merit Evaluation, and Palace Attendant of the Secretariat. During the Yuanhe era, Li Jifu was appointed chancellor twice. For a time, he also governed the Huainan military garrison. He was granted the title of Duke of Zhao. He planned and oversaw the suppression of the Western Shu and Zhenhai regions, weakening the power of regional warlords. He also streamlined the bureaucracy and strengthened border defenses, assisting Emperor Xianzong in establishing the Yuan... Details+