Compound of Ma Family in Kunming
Overview
The Compound of Ma Family (马家大院) is a classic Bai ethnic residence that is the most well-preserved traditional building in Kunming (昆明市). It was awarded the 2001 Cultural Heritage Conservation Award by UNESCO for the Asia-Pacific region.
Located on the serene alley of Silver Cabinet Lane (小银柜巷) in the old streets of Kunming, this residence is also known as “Jinlan Tea Garden” (金兰茶苑). It was originally the home of Ma Jun (马鉁), a prominent general of the Yunnan Army (滇军) and a national defense elder from Eryuan (洱源). Construction began in 1923, and Mr. Ma served as the first mayor of Kunming, moving his family into the new home in 1924.
Construction Details
- Construction Year: 1923
- Area: 1,146 m²
- Location: No. 36, Jingxing Street (景星街), Kunming City (昆明市), Yunnan Province (云南省)
Architectural Introduction
The Compound of Ma Family is situated at No. 36 Jingxing Street and was constructed in 1923. It faces south and covers a total area of 1,146 square meters. This architectural marvel is designed in the “four courtyards and five patios” style, featuring a brick and wood structure known as “zhuoma zhuanjiao” (走马转角楼).
The compound consists of two stories of wooden buildings interconnected, with a central courtyard measuring 200 square meters, adorned with flowers, plants, and stone water tanks. Four small patios are also present at the corners of the building. The architecture showcases intricate wood carvings and stone sculptures, typical of the Bai ethnic group, embodying the classic structure of “three halls and one screen wall” (三坊一照壁).
From the perspective of the main gate and the layout, the compound exhibits characteristics similar to the “One Seal” (一颗印) houses in Kunming, where the entrance is aligned with the central axis of the opposite structure. The entire building is oriented from north to south, creating a tranquil environment.
Professor Zhao Chen (赵辰) from Nanjing University (南京大学) and Swiss experts have conducted extensive research on this typical residence. They believe that it is not merely an old house but a successful exemplar of Chinese historical and cultural heritage in the eyes of foreigners.
Conservation Measures
In 2003, the Compound of Ma Family was announced as a municipal cultural heritage protection unit, emphasizing its significance in preserving Yunnan’s architectural history.
Compound of Ma Family in Kunming
