Meaning: The surname 马 (Mǎ) originates from the ancient Ying clan, a lineage tracing back to the legendary figure Boyi. Boyi was a talented minister during the reign of Emperor Shun, known for his skill in animal husbandry. One of Boyi's descendants, Feizi, became famous for breeding horses and was granted land in Qin (modern-day Tianshui, Gansu), establishing the state of Qin. A branch of Feizi's descendants adopted the surname 马 in honor of their connection to horses. Additionally, the surname 马 has other origins, including from少数民族改姓 (ethnic minorities adopting the surname).
Sorting of Chinese Surnames:No.13 Sung version of the Hundred Surnames: NO.52 place
Ma Wan (马琬)
a Ming Dynasty painter and poet known for his landscape and figure paintings, following the styles of Dong Yuan and Mi Fu, and author of 'Garden Collection'.
Ma Ze (马则)
A person from Xingyuan during the Ming Dynasty, with no detailed historical records.
Ma Qiansheng (马千乘)
A Ming Dynasty Jinshi who served as a county magistrate and provincial official, known for pacifying bandits and quelling rebellions.
'马' is a common Chinese surname associated with the horse, symbolizing strength and speed. It traces back to ancient lineage and has multiple origins, including from ethnic minorities.