Chinese Houses of Southeast Asia by Ronald G. Knapp

Author:Ronald G. Knapp
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-1-4629-0587-4
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing

The Tjong A Fie Mansion

“Everything was magnificent beyond words,” is how Queeny described the new home she entered on a propitious date in 1900. An imported generator delivered electricity to brilliantly lit chandeliers that dazzled young and old alike. As the first residence in Medan to have electricity, not only was there no need to contend with oil or kerosene lamps, there was abundant illumination during the nighttime when circumstances demanded that it shine brilliantly through the front windows on both levels. Set back from the road behind an imposing gate that led to a garden and a broad porch, the mansion was unique. While the exterior of the house had an overall modern appearance because of its large windows, square columns, and covered veranda, on closer inspection the structure followed a symmetrical triple-bay plan with carved brackets lifting the roof. Moreover, a pair of flanking side buildings with an unmistakable Chinese gable, mirroring that found on the main building’s gables, is found on both sides of the main structure. As early photographs show, the entry porch was arrayed with hanging couplets, lanterns, and signboards of many types. It was on this terrace, which has a much more subdued appearance amidst the trappings of China, that family commemorative photographs over many years were taken. At the rear of the house was an entryway leading to an open area as well as sheds for parking vehicles. This rear entry was used on a day-to-day basis by the family while the front door was preserved for formal occasions.

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