Reflecting on the Master Mason's Legacy - Commemorating the National Living Treasure, Su Cing-liang

【◎Written by Wang Ting-yun◎Translation by Lin Yu-ciao◎Photos by Yang Wei-ren】

Su Cing-liang（苏清良）was the first mason from Kaohsiung to have been esteemed by the Ministry of Culture for his restoration and cultural preservation of numerous traditional Han and foreign-style landmarks. He is also one of the few craftsmen in Taiwan skilled in both domains. Regretfully, he passed away this year on July 20th at 89.

In June, during his last interview before his passing, Master Su Cing-liang discussed his restoration work at Fongyi Academy. Built in 1814, Fongyi Academy is the largest preserved academy in Taiwan. In 2013, after four years of restoration, it was officially reopened. He recounted meticulous details about the project, such as how he had restored the decorative swallowtail roofs.

His work has brought historical landmarks back to their original splendor and glory.

The legend was the Su family's third generation to be involved in restoration. His legacy, lifelong dedication, and contributions to restoring Taiwan's traditional architecture and cultural heritage must be commemorated.

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