A Symphony of Brick and Stone: The Exquisite Craftsmanship of Linxia's Dong Gongguan

A Gateway to the "Brick Carving Museum"

Hidden behind an unassuming traditional gate in the southeastern part of Linxia City (formerly known as Hezhou), Dong Gongguan, or the East Mansion, offers a transition through time into a world of unparalleled artistic splendor. Constructed between 1938 and 1945, this grand residence was originally built for Ma Lin, a prominent military commander of the era. Far more than a simple historical dwelling, it serves as a "Brick Carving Museum," showcasing the absolute peak of Hezhou’s world-renowned masonry and wood-carving arts.

The Grand Siheyuan Architecture

1.The mansion follows a majestic: Siheyuan (four-sided courtyard) layout, meticulously divided into a front yard, a central yard, and a back yard, complemented by a private garden. The structure is a masterclass in architectural fusion, blending the symmetry of traditional Han Chinese courtyards with decorative elements influenced by Tibetan aesthetics and even Western-style arches and ornamentation. This "palace of the common people" was built with such precision that it rivals the complexity of imperial structures, with every beam and pillar telling a story of cultural integration on the Silk Road frontier.

The Soul of Hezhou Masonry

2.The defining feature of Dong: Gongguan is its brick carvings, which are recognized as a pinnacle of Chinese folk art. These carvings are not merely decorative but are integrated into the very fabric of the building—on shadow walls (Yingbi), door lintels, and courtyard screens. The "Shadow Wall" in the front yard is particularly famous, featuring a colossal "Dragon and Phoenix" motif that appears to breathe life into the stone. The intricate patterns range from classical "Three Kingdoms" folklore to auspicious flowers and mythical creatures, all carved with a level of detail that makes the hard brick appear as delicate as ivory.

A Cultural Intersection on the Plateau

Standing within the central yard, visitors can admire the "One" shaped landscape, where the building’s layout creates a rhythmic flow of space that symbolizes harmony and longevity. The mansion reflects the unique cultural spirit of Linxia, where Islamic, Han, and Tibetan influences have converged for centuries. At an altitude of 1,900 meters, the mansion remains a serene sanctuary, offering a quiet space to reflect on the historical weight of the 1930s while surrounded by the timeless beauty of highland craftsmanship.