← Explore on the interactive map

Wang Dan

Type Figure Region China Time 957–1017 Also known as Wang Ziming、Duke of Wei

Wang Dan (957–1017), courtesy name Ziming, from Shen County, Daming Prefecture, was a prominent chancellor of the Northern Song.…

Timeline

  1. 1011Houtu Temple at Fenyin · Wanrong CountyIn the fourth year of Dazhong Xiangfu, at the Fenyin sacrifices, Wang Dan again served as Grand Ritual Commissioner, composed the 'Ode to the Altar of Sacrifice,' and was promoted to Right Vice Director; he was deeply worried about the expense of the Fengshan sacrifices and repeatedly declined a rank increase, accepting only the title of Meritorious Servant.
  2. 1012–1016Eastern Capital, Kaifeng Prefecture · Kaifeng CityBetween the fifth and ninth years of Xiangfu, Wang Dan concurrently served as Grand Ritual Commissioner for Enshrining the Sacred Statue at Yuqing, Court Worship Commissioner at Jingling Palace, and Jade Carving Commissioner, overseeing several Heaven's Book-related projects; he was often melancholy because he could not dissuade Zhenzong from his faith in alchemists.
  3. 1017Eastern Capital, Kaifeng Prefecture · Kaifeng CityIn the spring of the first year of Tianxi, Wang Dan repeatedly requested retirement due to illness; Zhenzong reluctantly agreed, relieving him of the chancellorship while retaining half his salary. Zhenzong sent palace attendants several times to inquire after him and bestow medicine; in September he died at his private residence, leaving a memorial advising the emperor to attend personally to government and employ worthy men, and warning his descendants against lavish burial.

Sources