Zhao Ji (赵佶) (7 June 1082 – 4 June 1135), temple name Huizong, was the 8th emperor of the Song dynasty and an accomplished calligrapher, poet, and painter. He holds significant importance in Chinese art history due to his substantial contributions in elevating the status of painting and documenting artwork.

During his reign, he presided over the Hanlin Academy of painting, where he worked with and trained a great number of artists. Under his patronage, the art of painting flourished as it had never before. The imperial court also amassed a vast collection of masterpieces and embarked on an unprecedented undertaking to compile catalogues of the entire government collection of art and antiquities, marking the first such effort in history. For paintings alone, 6387 pieces were recorded.

However, as a ruler, he was not as devoted or competent. In 1126, facing the invasion of the Jurchens, he chose to abdicate. He was subsequently captured and deported to the north, where he kept in captivity for nine years. He died in the capitivity and suffering.