【Description】

In imperial Qing, the direct descendants of the four Confucian sages—Confucius, Mencius, Zengzi, and Yan Hui—were hereditary Five Classics Doctors of the Hanlin Academy. The descendants of Confucius served as officiants in the grand ceremony in Confucius’s honor, while the others served as assistant officiants. During the Song Dynasty, Confucius's descendants were titled Duke Yansheng. In 1935, the Nationalist Government redefined these roles, and in 2009, they became honorary positions without remuneration.

Kong Decheng, the 77th generation direct descendant of Confucius, was titled the 32nd Duke Yansheng at one hundred days old. He was the last Duke Yansheng and the first Grand Ceremonial Officiant. Kong moved to Taiwan in 1949, taught at several universities, held government positions, and promoted national diplomacy. Known for his calligraphy, he mastered various script styles and was skilled in epigraphy and antiquities.

【Artifact Story】

This piece was originally gifted by Kong Decheng to linguistics master Professor Mei Guang (1939-2022), and donated to the museum by Professor Mei's wife, Mrs. Zhang Linsheng. Mei and Zhang met while attending Kong Decheng's lectures at National Taiwan University, where Kong later became their wedding officiant. Kong often gifted calligraphy to the couple on special occasions, he highly valued Mei's academic contributions. According to Mrs. Zhang, the couplet was displayed in their home study, Professor Mei particularly loved it.