Born in the Southern Song dynasty (1127–1279) and flourishing in the Yuan dynasty (1271–1368), Guan Daosheng (1262–1319) was an exceptional example of intelligent, well-educated women in imperial China, many of whom were multitalented in different fields of Chinese literary culture, especially calligraphy, painting, and literature. Her artistic achievements have been compared to those of some leading male literati, including her husband, Zhao Mengfu (1254–1322) (courtesy name Zi’ang), who was not only one of the most esteemed calligraphers and painters in Chinese history, but also a prolific writer. These achievements, resulting from their shared interests and goals, enhanced their lifelong marriage and, together with it, received royal recognition. The literary works attributed to her have been transmitted to contemporary readers, represented by one almost as popular as those by the women writers of the greatest literary accomplishments.