Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Gong Wang (龚旺, Cung Vượng) is a fictional character in the classic Chinese literature masterpiece Water Margin. He is known as the ‘Flowery Necked Tiger’ and is ranked as the 78th of the 108 Stars of Destiny, occupying the role of Earthly Liaison Star (Địa Tiệp Tinh). Originally serving as a vice-general under Zhang Qing (张清, Trương Thanh) in Dongchang Prefecture, he was captured by the forces of Liangshan after a fierce battle. Following his capture, he pledged loyalty to the outlaw band and became a cavalry leader within the Liangshan army.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
“The tiger with the flowery neck, swift as the wind and deadly with the stone; though a subordinate of the Featherless Arrow, he carved his own path in the annals of the heroes of the marsh.”
Gong Wang is characterized by his distinctive tiger-skin pattern tattoo on his neck, which earned him his famous nickname. He is a skilled martial artist, particularly noted for his expertise in throwing stones, a talent he shared with his commander, Zhang Qing. During the Liangshan campaign against Fang La (方腊, Phương Lạp), Gong Wang fought valiantly alongside his peers. However, his life met a tragic end when he fell into a trap during an engagement at Deqing, where he was ambushed and killed by the enemy forces.
Gong Wang — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 70
The Siege of Dongchang
Gong Wang appears as a lieutenant to Zhang Qing, helping defend Dongchang against the Liangshan heroes. He is captured by the Liangshan forces after a difficult engagement.
Chapter 71
Joining the 108 Heroes
Following his capture, Gong Wang formally joins the Liangshan Marsh, accepting the position of one of the infantry and cavalry leaders.
Chapter 112
Death in the Fang La Campaign
While fighting under the Song Dynasty banners against the rebel leader Fang La, Gong Wang is trapped in a quagmire and killed by the enemy troops.
Key Relationships
- Zhang Qing (张清, Trương Thanh)
- The commander under whom Gong Wang served while defending Dongchang Prefecture; a mentor-like figure in martial combat techniques.
- Ding Desun (丁得孙, Đinh Đắc Tôn)
- A fellow vice-commander under Zhang Qing who joined Liangshan alongside Gong Wang; the two are often associated together in the narrative.
