Li Jin

Who is Li Jin?

Li Jin was an imperial prince and member of the royal family in the Tang Dynasty. He was the eldest son of crown prince Li Chengqi, and grandson of Emperor Ruizong. Li Jin's father, Li Chengqi, yielded his claim to the throne to his younger brother, Li Longji, who eventually became Emperor Xuánzong of Tang. Li Jin was adored by his uncle, the Emperor Xuánzong, who personally taught him to play music. He also gave him a prominent position in the government, and the title Prince of Ruyang. Li Jin "excelled at poetry and calligraphy, carrying himself with scholarly bearing." He was skilled at playing the drum, and was also known for his ability in archery. Li Jin had a number of siblings, among them, Li Yu, and Li Xiang, who is the father of Li Shizhi mentioned with Li Jin in Du Fu's infamous poem, "The Eight Immortals of the Wine Cup".