12th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, Song dynasty, stories
The jester Ding Xianxian 丁仙現 (Immortal Revelation Ding) was a Grand Commissioner of the Court Entertainments Bureau 教坊 at the court of Song Huizong 宋徽宗 (r. 1101-25). Early in the Chongning reign period (1102-06), his musical skills were called upon as arbiter of...
11th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, Song dynasty, stories
There are several anecdotes relating to the renowned Chinese poet Su Dongpo 苏東坡 (1036-1101), and jesters. Su wore a kind of hat which was named after him. During the Xining reign period (1068–1077) of Song Shenzong 宋神宗, some jesters acted out a skit in which they...
12th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, Song dynasty
Another example of jesters using the skit as a vehicle for influencing the emperor’s behaviour or policy. Immortal Revelation Ding (Ding Xianxian丁仙現) was a jester who flourished for several decades. In addition to being solicited for his opinions on music and...
11th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, Song dynasty, stories
A charming tale of a prominent jester’s landing himself in the bad books of a powerful minister but being saved from wrathful retribution by the emperor.Prime Minister Wang Anshi (1021-86) instituted a series of sweeping reforms although he later fell into...
