Ma Duanlin

Biography:

Mă Duānlín was a Chinese historical writer and encyclopaedist. In 1317 he published the comprehensive Chinese encyclopedia Wenxian Tongkao in 348 volumes. He was born to the family of Southern Song Minister of the East Ma Tingluan who had an extensive collection of historical documents. From 1273 Ma Duanlin started the compilation of the Wenxian Tongkao using his father's collection and advice.