Faces and Places of Daxu, China

Welcome to Mr. Cho’s Typical Chinese Home

While roaming around the ancient village of Daxu, China, in Guangxi Province, I was surprised how friendly and accommodating the Chinese people were. Many of the villagers could not understand why we would want to photograph them in their humble homes, yet they were willing and charming, nonetheless.

Mr. Cho shows us his basement smoking room and then let us into his main room where plucked a simple tune on his sanxian while I used the natural light coming a side window to illuminate this scene. I love how shadows bring attention to the lit objects for a “chiaroscuro” contrast lighting effect. It was fascinating to see the blend of “old and new” in each home. Mr. Cho had a nice collection of antiques he proudly displayed in his home.

Daxu Ancient Town is located on the east bank of the Li River, 14 miles southeast of Guilin City. Daxu is more than 1000 years, and originally formed in the early Northern Song Dynasty (960-1126). Daxu was the leader of four renowned ancient towns in Guangxi Province. The stone streets are narrow but adequate for foot traffic and motorcyle-converted delivery carts.

Mr. Cho sits in his basement smoking room to enjoy his natural skylight.

Mr. Cho: Welcome to my home!

 

The colors and textures in the homes of Daxu, China!

Mr. Cho plucked a simple tune on his sanxian while I used the natural light coming a side window to illuminate this scene

 

 

The antiques, wood and textures in this well kept home were earthy and intriguing.

Mr. Cho is a perfect example of why I loved capturing the “Faces and Places of China” on my recent trip to Guilin.

 

The ethereal textures and colors in this basement smoking room were illuminated by overhead natural light for a fascinating scene.

It was fun to watch Mr. Cho play his ancient, three-stringed instrument.