It is with great sadness that Clare Hall announces the passing of Dr Michael Loewe, esteemed Emeritus Fellow and Honorary Fellow, who passed away on 1 January 2025 at the age of 102.

Michael’s funeral will take place at 12 noon on Sunday January 12th at Hoop Lane Cemetery, London NW11 7NH.  Everyone is invited to come back afterwards for light refreshments at 18 Windsor Road, London N3 3SS.

Born on 2 November 1922 in Oxford, England, Dr Loewe was a distinguished sinologist and historian, renowned for his extensive contributions to the study of China’s early empires, particularly the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE).

Dr Loewe’s academic journey began at Magdalen College, Oxford, where he studied Classics. In his second year and after war broke out with Japan in December 1941, Loewe was drafted in to assist with the war effort. He was tasked with learning Japanese at the covert Bedford Japanese School, overseen by Captain Oswald Tuck RN. Near the end of the course, they received some cryptography training. Upon finishing the course, Loewe was assigned to Bletchley Park, where he served in the Naval Section until the war concluded. Following his time at Bletchley Park, he continued working within the civil service.

In his free time, he learned Mandarin Chinese. During a six-month period in Beijing in 1947, Loewe developed an interest in traditional and historical Chinese subjects. Upon returning to Britain, he pursued these studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, from where he graduated with a first-class honours degree in Chinese in 1951 and later obtained his PhD in 1963.

In 1956, he left his government position to become a Lecturer in the History of the Far East at the University of London. In 1963, he commenced his tenure as a University Lecturer in Chinese Studies at the University of Cambridge, a position he held until 1990. Dr Loewe became an Official Fellow of Clare Hall from 1968 to 1990, one of our earliest Fellows to hold such a position, and continued his association as an Emeritus Fellow and Honorary Fellow thereafter.

Dr Loewe’s scholarly work was instrumental in advancing Western understanding of early Chinese history. His research encompassed the examination of both literary and material evidence, shedding light on the administrative practices, religious beliefs, and intellectual developments of ancient China. He was particularly noted for his studies on the authenticity of historical texts and the interpretation of archaeological discoveries, which enriched knowledge of Han China’s cultural heritage.

In recognition of his scholarly achievements, Dr Loewe was elected a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, underscoring his international reputation as a leading figure in Sinology.

Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr Loewe was known for his dedication to teaching and mentorship, inspiring generations of students and scholars in the field of Chinese studies.

Clare Hall extends its deepest condolences to Dr Loewe’s family, friends, and colleagues. His passing is a significant loss to the academic community, and he will be remembered with great respect and affection.

A memorial service to honour Dr Loewe’s life and contributions will be announced in due course.