Illustration of a sunken courtyard in front of a villa

Quick answer：

A sunken courtyard refers to a courtyard that is lower in elevation compared to the surrounding ground level. It is often found in traditional Chinese architecture and can be used as a garden space. In the context of a villa, a sunken courtyard can serve as a private outdoor area, offering a sense of seclusion and tranquility. The illustration would typically depict the layout, features, and architectural elements of this sunken courtyard, such as steps, plants, and decorative elements.