Born in Changzhou, Jiangsu. He was named as Zhi, Zhuangmu and Zhiliu, sobriquet Chiyan, previously studied ancient literature and poems with Qian Mingshan. Later, he devoted himself to art. After relocated to Chongqing, he met with Zhang Da-Qian, Shen Yin-Mo and other famous artists and studied Chinese art history, hence he went to the caves of Dunhuang with Zhang Da-Qian. His artistic style integrated both ancient Sui Tang and his own unique style. Previously worked as a professor in the Arts Faculty of the National Central University and the Chongqing National Art School. He also served as a consultant at the Shanghai Museum and was a notable Chinese artist and connoisseur of Chinese art.