Cen Xi

Cen Xi (岑羲) (c. 656 – 715), courtesy name Demao (德茂), was a Chinese official during the Tang dynasty, serving as a chancellor during the reign of Emperor Ruizong.

Cen Xi came from an aristocratic family, a cadet branch of the ruling family of the Liang dynasty of the Southern dynasties period, which produced many officials for the Sui and Tang dynasties. He passed the imperial examinations and entered governmental service. He held various posts, including positions in the secretariat and as a censor, known for his integrity and upright behavior.

Later, during the second reign of Emperor Ruizong, Cen Xi rose to prominence. In 710, Emperor Ruizong made him Zhongshu Shilang (中書侍郎), the deputy head of the legislative bureau of government (中書省), and gave him the designation Tong Zhongshu Menxia Pingzhangshi (同中書門下平章事), making him a chancellor de facto. He was known for his careful and judicious advice to the emperor.

His time as chancellor was relatively short. He was involved in the political struggles of the time, particularly involving Princess Taiping. Ultimately, his relationship with Princess Taiping deteriorated, and he was accused of various misdeeds. In 711, he was removed from his chancellor post and demoted.

Although he faced political setbacks, Cen Xi continued to serve in the government in lower positions. He died in 715. He was remembered as an honest and capable official, although his career was ultimately affected by the volatile political climate of the time.