In the heart of Changde, just one kilometer east of Wuling Pavilion, lies the serene and elegant Changde Museum. As winter faded into spring, the museum came alive with the "Taoyuan Nightmare – Li Anhua Taoyuan Carved Bed Boutique Exhibition," a groundbreaking event that stirred the local art scene. The exhibition not only drew in local visitors but also attracted international groups from Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, all eager to witness the masterpieces on display. As people marveled at the intricate carvings, they couldn't help but wonder: Who created these works? And where did this extraordinary art originate? The answer is simple: “Tao Yuan Gong.” "Tao Yuan Gong" — the Origin of Imperial Craftsmanship “Tao Yuan Gong” refers to a collective of artisans specializing in stonework, woodcarving, embroidery, and jade carving, deeply rooted in architecture, home furnishings, and cultural exchanges. Known for its long history and distinctive style, this craft has been passed down through generations, with a large number of skilled practitioners contributing to its legacy. The origins of “Tao Yuan Gong” trace back to the Tang Dynasty, when Changde was part of the Song Kingdom. Historical records reveal that during the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Shu Feng, the 12th son of Emperor Xianzong, was stationed in Changde. To construct his palace, a vast number of elite craftsmen were summoned from across the country, bringing with them the refined techniques of the imperial court. Over time, these skills merged with local craftsmanship. When Li Zicheng’s forces retreated during the late Ming period, many court artisans fled to Changde, spreading their knowledge and techniques throughout the region. This fusion gave rise to a unique artistic style — delicate yet bold — which later became known as “Tao Yuan Gong.” During the Ming and Qing dynasties, “Tao Yuan Gong” reached its peak, with artisans frequently invited to the imperial palace to create exquisite carvings, decorations, and furniture. Local government buildings also showcased their work, reinforcing the reputation of these artisans. However, in the early 20th century, the craft suffered a severe decline due to social upheaval and lack of support. In the 1980s, efforts began to revive the tradition. One notable example was the restoration of Yuelu Academy’s “Sexuality Days” and “Drama Southern Pulses,” which had nearly disappeared. Yang Shenchu, a scholar involved in the restoration, sought out top artisans nationwide and eventually chose Zhu Wen’an and his wife for the task. Zhu Wen’an, a native of Taojia Yuanjiaping, was a renowned root art sculptor and a descendant of Qing Dynasty palace artisans, earning the title “the first knife in South China.” After his passing, his son Zhu Deyuan continued the family legacy, carrying forward the art with great skill. Art That Precedes Picasso Taoyuan Woodcarving, celebrated in the art world, is a shining example of “Tao Yuan Gong” craftsmanship. It draws inspiration from Han Dynasty brick carvings, emphasizing subtlety and minimalism, reflecting the Chinese aesthetic of “less is more.” The designs are natural, the lines clean yet expressive. Whether depicting landscapes, figures, or flora, each piece conveys deep artistic meaning. Interestingly, its approach to form and depth mirrors the innovations of 20th-century artists like Picasso, but centuries earlier. One of the most impressive pieces in the Changde Museum is a Qing Dynasty carved bed known as the “Screw-Turning Well.” Spanning 13 square meters, it took over three years to complete by a team of artisans. Featuring 106 figures, it symbolizes the auspicious number 108, with a couple sleeping in the center, completing the cycle of fortune. Every detail is meticulously crafted, with no repetition in the five-tiered patterns. Scenes include Confucian ceremonies, heroic figures, seasonal flowers, and mythical creatures, all rendered with incredible precision and beauty. The carvings employ hundreds of techniques, including round sculpture, relief, openwork, and hollow carving, each executed with mastery. Painting is another crucial step, as the quality of the paint directly affects the visual impact and longevity of the work. Zhang Huiqing, a 58-year-old painter who started at age 8, emphasizes the importance of lighting, contrast, and polishing. His most cherished piece is a wooden fish used in Taohuayuan, which has been polished for 20 years and continues to shine brighter with time. Beyond woodcarving, Taoyuan jade and stone carvings are also renowned, especially the striking stone lions that capture the essence of power and creativity. A New Generation of Guardians Since the 1980s, visionaries in Changde have worked tirelessly to preserve and promote “Tao Yuan Gong” heritage. Zhang Xuexiang, former director of the Jiulong Palace Woodcarving Research and Production Center, dedicated his life to the craft after meeting Zhu Wen’an while restoring an imperial concubine's chamber. In 1996, he retired early to focus on protecting Taoyuan woodcarving and brought together many master artisans. Today, over 30 skilled craftsmen from the center work across Hunan and beyond, keeping the tradition alive. Li Anhua, a private collector, has amassed hundreds of Taoyuan carved beds, turning her passion into a legend. Her collection showcases the enduring beauty and complexity of this ancient art. The artistic achievements of “Tao Yuan Gong” hold a significant place in Chinese art history, offering rich potential for further study. Changde’s cultural authorities are now working to include “Tao Yuan Gong” in the provincial intangible cultural heritage list, filling a gap in folk arts and crafts preservation.

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