Explore the historical origins of Chinese surnames

Surname Story

Origin and History of the Surname 皮

Sure, I’d be happy to share the story of the Chinese surname “Pi” and some famous historical figures with this surname.

The surname “Pi” (皮) has a unique origin in Chinese history. According to legends, it originated from an ancient leather craftsman named Pi Dan who lived during the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC). Because of his exceptional skills in leather craftsmanship, his descendants took his occupation as their surname, hence the name "Pi", which means leather in Chinese.

Now, let's talk about some famous historical figures with the surname "Pi". One notable figure is Pi Rixiu, a renowned calligrapher and painter during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368 AD). His works are still highly valued today for their artistic merit.

Another famous person with the surname "Pi" is Pi Shihui, a Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) official and historian. He was known for his contributions to historiography and his efforts to preserve historical records.

Lastly, there's also Pi Daoyi, a contemporary Chinese actor who has appeared in numerous films and television dramas, gaining popularity for his versatile performances.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals with the surname "Pi". The surname holds a rich history and cultural significance in China, reflecting the diverse heritage and contributions of the Pi family over generations.