Surname Overview
A Rare Surname
Chen, romanized Chén, is a rare surname.
Chén Surname
Population reference (not a current census): 55Chén / Ch'en
Origins
Descendants of Cai Zhonghu
One lineage descends from Cai Zhonghu, son of Cai Shudu, and traces to the Ji clan.
Xianbei Name Change
During the Northern Wei period, the Pili-Chen clan changed its surname to Chen and is identified as being of Xianbei origin.
Place- and State-Name Origins
Other accounts derive the surname from residence in Chenzhou or from the name Chen associated with Chenhan and the title King of Chen.
Migration and Distribution
Recorded Distribution
The Chen surname is found in mainland China.
Notable People
Notable Person and Commanderies
Chen Ziqi of the Sui dynasty was skilled in painting; the surname's commanderies were Henan and Dai Commandery.
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Surname attestation references
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