A scandal involving famed 87-year-old Chinese artist Fan Zeng and his 37-year-old wife Xu Meng has ignited controversy on Chinese social media platforms. Allegations surfaced on August 16 claiming that Xu Meng had seized assets valued at over 2 billion yuan (approximately $278 million USD) , including rare calligraphy, paintings, and cultural antiques belonging to her husband.
According to Hongxing News , Xu Meng is accused of removing these valuables from their shared villa while the artist’s children were overseas. Fan Xiaohui , Fan Zeng’s daughter, shared a detailed account on social media, expressing concern for her father’s well-being and inability to reach him for over two weeks.
“My father said he was staying at a hospital to care for Xu Meng, who was ill,” she explained, noting the unusual reversal of roles given his age and health. Upon her return to China, she discovered the family residence locked, longtime staff dismissed, and security cameras turned off.
Investigations conducted by Xiaohui revealed that Xu Meng had relocated many of her husband’s prized artworks , fired trusted employees, and taken control of the household. Despite being able to message Xu Meng, she claimed the younger wife refused to disclose Fan Zeng’s whereabouts.
Marriage Under Scrutiny
The couple made headlines in April 2024 , when they announced their marriage. Fan Zeng described Xu Meng as a devoted caregiver who helped him recover after a mild stroke in 2021 following the death of his third wife. Their shared interest in traditional art reportedly brought them together, with Xu Meng acting as his assistant in both daily life and studio work.
According to acquaintances, Xu Meng lived lavishly even before marriage—reportedly gifted a Ferrari by Fan Zeng and regularly seen with luxury handbags , including Hermès.
A Distinguished Artistic Legacy
Fan Zeng is considered a titan of Chinese contemporary calligraphy and painting , with his work displayed in international museums in Japan and the UK. His pieces have fetched millions at auctions:
- “Bamboo Ruler” sold for over 40 million yuan (~$5.1 million USD)
- “Spiritual Spring Dao Wind” achieved 18.4 million yuan (~$2.5 million USD)
He previously served as Vice President of the Chinese Artists Association and Vice Chairman of the Chinese Calligraphy Association .
Public Reaction & Silence From Involved Parties
The story has divided public opinion. While some sympathize with the elderly artist and his daughter’s concerns, others speculate whether this is a personal tragedy or a larger pattern of manipulation. As of now, no official statement has been issued by either Fan Zeng or Xu Meng , and it remains unclear whether legal action has been taken.
Meanwhile, rumors persist online about Xu Meng having a secret lover and conspiring with others to take control of the artist’s fortune.
Sources: vnexpress
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