On December 11, legendary Chinese calligrapher Fan Zeng, 87, shocked the public with a handwritten statement posted online, announcing the birth of his first son with wife Xu Meng, who is 50 years younger.
“What a great blessing! From now on, the three of us—my wife, my son, and I—will live together. We have moved into a new home and will stay by each other’s side for the rest of our lives,” Fan wrote.
Fan also declared that Xu Meng would now have full authority over all matters related to him: “Given my age, I have already entrusted her with most affairs. From this day forward, she will be solely responsible for all public and private matters concerning me.”
But the announcement didn’t stop at personal news. Fan openly denounced his daughter Fan Xiaohui and adopted son Fan Zhongda, accusing them of malicious slander and interference. He announced he was severing all ties with them, stating: “From today, I officially cut off all relations with Fan Xiaohui, Fan Zhongda, and their families. I will not maintain any contact or cooperation with them or any entities they manage or are affiliated with.”
He also revoked all legal and business authorizations previously given to them, warning that any unauthorized use of his name would be subject to legal action. Fan emphasized that future exhibitions, sales, or charitable activities involving his name would only be valid if organized through the Ten Wings Cultural Art Foundation or the Fan Zeng Ten Wings Cultural Art Company in Beijing.
This public fallout follows earlier controversies. Fan Xiaohui had previously claimed her father was missing and that antiques from his home had been taken, raising suspicions about Xu Meng’s intentions. Reports also alleged Xu Meng and one of Fan’s adopted sons colluded to claim the unborn child as Fan’s in a bid to secure inheritance.
Fan Zeng, born in 1938, is one of China’s most prominent calligraphers, painters, and scholars. He holds titles such as honorary professor at Nankai University, researcher at the China Academy of Art, and multicultural advisor for UNESCO. His works have fetched astronomical sums, including Four Arts , which sold for 480 million yuan. His total auction turnover reportedly exceeds 2.3 billion yuan over 11 years.
Before marrying Xu Meng, Fan Zeng had three prior marriages and one biological daughter. His third marriage was especially controversial due to an affair with a friend’s wife. The pair eventually married and lived together until her passing in 2021, leaving behind two sons from her previous relationship.
Xu Meng, born in 1988, has been dubbed the “No.1 golden ratio beauty” in China. She’s rumored to have worked as a model, singer, actress, and TV host. Her glamorous public image stands in stark contrast to the scandal-ridden family drama now playing out in the media.
Despite the uproar, Fan Zeng remains one of China’s most revered cultural figures — and his latest announcement proves his life off the page is just as dramatic as the masterpieces he creates on it.
Sources: Ngoisao
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