Han Zigao

Han Zigao (; 538–567), formerly known as Han Manzi (韓蠻子), was a Chinese general. He is recorded in history for his beauty and for being the favorite lover of Emperor Wen of Chen.

Biography Han Zigao was born as Han Manzi in 538. He was born in Jingshi Jiankang (now Nanjing, Jiangsu). His father, Han Yanqing, was a farmer.

Around 554, when he was 16 years old, he met the future Emperor Wen of Chen, by then only a general. After entering Chen's service, the last gave him a new name, Zigao, and made him his personal assistant. Not long after, Han Zigao became his favorite lover.

The two pixiu statues outside Emperor Chen's tomb, believed to represent Emperor Chen and Han Zigao.

By nature, Han Zigao was respectful and cautious, serving Chen Qian with all his heart and soul, carrying a sword to defend Chen Qian, and serving Chen Qian wine and food. When Chen Qian was anxious, Han Zigao could always comprehend the reason. After getting older, he learned riding and shooting skills, and being brave and decisive, soon became a commander. Chen Qian was very pleased with him and never let him go away. Chen Qian once dreamed that he was riding a horse in the mountains: the road was dangerous, and he was about to fall down the mountain, but was saved by Han Zigao. Han Zigao indeed saved his life later, during a night attack on their camp. two statues of pixiu were found, different from the usual male and female design, since both of them are male.

In popular culture He was first recorded in Book of Chen, the official history of the Chen dynasty.

A web film based on Han Zigao's story, Han Zi Gao - The Male Queen, was released in 2016. The film was directed by Li Jinlun and stars Wang Yichen and Shao Shuai as Han Zigao and Chen, respectively.