Zheng Xie

Biography

Zheng Xie (November 22, 1693, Jiangsu – January 22, 1766, Beijing), also known by the names Kerou, Banqiao, and Banqiao Dao-ren, was a Chinese artist, calligrapher, poet, writer, and politician during the Qing dynasty. He grew up in poverty and, through the imperial examination system, became a magistrate in Shandong province. After twelve years of service, Zheng Xie criticized the life of an official due to his refusal to please senior officials, and he retired following criticism for building a shelter for the poor. After leaving political life, he focused on art and became one of the Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou. His paintings of orchids, bamboo, and stones gained particular recognition. In 1748, he briefly returned to official duties as a court calligrapher and painter under the Qianlong Emperor.