Ma Heng

CHINA, Zhejiang, Ningbo

Ma Heng was a specialist in epigraphy and artifacts, as well as a seal engraver from Jingxian (present day Yinzhou, Ningbo). He served as a professor and director of several different institutes around China. Ma was known as a pioneer of modern archaeology, and specialized in epigraphy, Chinese arts, and steles.
Since the establishment of the Palace Museum in Beijing in 1925, Ma worked and the remaining years in the Department of Antiques. During his 27 years of service, 19 years were spent holding the position of chief administrator. He exerted himself in protecting the national treasures and donated his vast collections of artifacts to the country. In addition, he published a few written works on epigraphy.
Also skilled in poetry and calligraphy, Ma’s seal designs feature ancient scripts. He was the second president, after Wu Changshuo, of the Xiling Seal Art Society; his works include a seal entitled Take Refuge in the Triple Gem.