Gu Kaizhi (顾恺之, ca. 345 - ca. 406) is one of the most celebrated Chinese painters, and his name is almost synonymous with the origins of Chinese scroll painting. Over time, his fame grew, and he became a semi-divine figure in Chinese art history. He was born in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, and held an official position at the court. In addition to excelling in painting, he was also a poet and calligrapher, producing works that covered a wide range of subjects, including figures, Buddhist images, animals, and landscapes.

He wrote three books on painting theory: 'On Painting' (画论), 'Introduction of Famous Paintings of Wei and Jin Dynasties' (魏晋胜流画赞), and 'Painting Yuntai Mountain' (画云台山记).

Three well-known scrolls are attributed to him, namely 'The Admonitions of the Instructress to the Court Ladies,' 'Nymph of the Luo River,' and 'Wise and Benevolent Women.