Fuma Story
Fuma Brand
Fuma, which means ‘the emperor’s son-in-law’ in Chinese. This title originated from my ancestor, Xu Jue, who brought the Song Dynasty’s civilization to Chaozhou. He taught the locals skills such as porcelain making, embroidery, and carving, transforming a rustic mountain town into a prosperous city.
The fuma brand is derived from xufuma’s story. The story tells us not to give up on your dreams, and you can reap happiness in the end.
Yes, my house is 1,000 years old
The “XuFuma Mansion,” constructed in 1064, served as the home for the emperor’s son-in-law and the princess about a millennium ago. This impressive structure, with nine rooms spanning roughly 1800 square meters, was designated as a significant cultural heritage site in China in 1997. Experts have described it as “a unique example of a Song Dynasty mansion.” The mansion is a valuable inheritance from our ancestors, providing a glimpse into the lifestyle of Chaozhou’s elite from a thousand years ago. Its interior wood carvings are particularly noteworthy for their artistic value.
Now, I invite you to step back in time and explore this fascinating piece of history. Welcome!
Address: No. 4, East Fu Cheng, Grapes Lane, Zhongshan Road, Chaozhou District, Guangdong Province, China
The Story of Xu Fuma
Greetings, I am Xu Jue, born during Emperor Song Renzong’s reign. Though the Song Dynasty was the world’s richest, my birthplace, Chaozhou in Guangdong, was a world apart. The harsh climate and boring culture contrasted starkly with the capital’s grandeur. As a child in the Chaozhou, my life seemed destined for ordinariness. Yet, an unyielding dream drove me: to leave my hometown and realize my potential in capital.
Fight Against Fate
After an arduous journey marked by countless trials and tribulations, my weary boots finally touched the cool marble streets of the Song Dynasty’s capital. As a stranger from the South, I was met with cold stares and biting comments. They derided me as a country bumpkin, scoffing at my accent and uncouth manners. But I chose to wear their words as badges of honour—tangible proof of my long journey from the humble town of Teochew to the illustrious city of the Emperor.
Through perseverance and the practical skills that my life in the South had bestowed upon me, I secured a position as a guard in the palace. Within these gilded walls, destiny introduced me to the princess, the woman who would become the love of my life.
She taught me patience, fostering resilience within me to endure the biting cold of the capital’s reception and face the looming challenges. Her presence gave me the courage to confront the darkness of my situation, to continue despite being a fish out of water. From that point forward, my resolve was unshakeable: I would strive for a future that promised her happiness, regardless of the odds stacked against us.
Defend My Country
Unexpectedly, chance struck. The Jiaozhi Kingdom invaded. The Emperor, in a desperate gambit, entrusted me, the same bumpkin they had scorned, with the task of our defense. Many doubted me, yet I was determined to protect our land. I knew this was a chance to prove myself, a test of my courage and wit.
With my wit, I devised strategies that played to our strengths and exploited the enemy’s weaknesses. We emerged victorious. The Jiaozhi were repelled, and I returned to the capital a hero. I was lauded, the same commoner who was once an object of ridicule. The Capital Dream was no longer a distant dream but a reality I could reach out and touch.
Returning to the Homeland
In the great power, I did not lose myself. Instead, I chose to return to Chaozhou with the princess, my heart. Armed with the knowledge and technologies from the capital, we strove to transform our hometown into a beacon of civilization.
One of our many contributions was the advanced porcelain-making technology. Chaozhou’s artisans took to it like a fish to water, their skilled hands crafting wares that rivalled even those of the capital. Our city is booming, and the children of my hometown no longer have to go through all the trouble of finding the urban dream like I did.
For my beloved princess, I built a huge house, our sweet home, which we named “Xu Fuma mansion.” It was our piece of paradise in Chaozhou, a symbol of our love and commitment.I hope it will stand forever and pass on my struggle and dreams to my children and grandchildren.