The Jiangnan Woodcarving Exhibition Hall, also known as the ‘Hall of Hundred Flowers’, was originally the luxurious residence of the Xu family in Dongzhai. The architecture itself is an exquisite piece of art, with intricately carved beams and painted rafters.
Inside the museum, there are numerous fine examples of Jiangnan woodcarving. Notably, the ‘Guo Ziyi’s Birthday Celebration Carving’ stands out. Made from a whole piece of camphor wood, it is the museum’s prized possession.
The woodcarvings in the museum feature a variety of themes. These include folktales such as the Eight Immortals crossing the sea and Guo Ziyi’s birthday celebration. Additionally, there are scenes from everyday life like fishing, cricket fighting, and drum beating. Traditional patterns are also represented, with motifs of dragons and phoenixes, plums, orchids, bamboo, and chrysanthemums. All of these are imbued with the local Jiangnan customs and culture.
Tourist groups visit the woodcarving museum every day. By listening to the guides’ explanations, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the local customs and woodcarving skills. The museum is open all year round, from 07:00 to 18:00.
