Xizhi Wang (303 - 361)

Wang Xizhi (Wade-Giles: Wang Hsi-chih; 303–361) was a Chinese calligrapher traditionally referred to as the Sage of Calligraphy (書聖), who lived during the Jin Dynasty (265–420). He is considered by many to be one of the most esteemed Chinese calligraphers of all time, especially during and after the Tang Dynasty, and a master of all forms of Chinese calligraphy, especially the running script. The Emperor Taizong admired his works so much that the original Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion was said to be buried with the emperor in his mausoleum. In addition to the esteem in which he is held in China, he has been and remains influential in Japanese calligraphy.