International contemporary art platform23.02.1920–28.10.2008
Kung Te-cheng
Kung Te-cheng (1920–2008) was the 77th generation direct descendant of Confucius, the last to hold the title Duke Yansheng, and the first official Confucian priest in modern Taiwan. He held various governmental positions and was instrumental in organizing Confucius commemorations in Taiwan.
Biography
Kung Te-cheng was born on February 23, 1920, in the city of Qufu. He was the 77th generation direct descendant of Confucius and became the last person to be granted the title Duke Yansheng. Additionally, he was the first official Confucian priest in modern history. In the Republic of China (Taiwan), Kung Te-cheng played a key role in establishing and conducting the annual ceremonies honoring Confucius. Besides his ceremonial duties, he held numerous government positions: he was a member of the National Assembly from 1946 to 1991, president of the Examination Yuan from 1984 to 1993, and senior advisor to the President of the Republic of China from 1948 to 2000. Beyond his political and ceremonial activities, Kung Te-cheng served as a professor at National Taiwan University, Fu Jen Catholic University, and Soochow University. He passed away on October 28, 2008, at the Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital.
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