Regarded as one of the greatest physicians in Chinese history, Li Shizhen was a renowned expert on medicinal herbs in China during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). His 40-year work on pharmacology, titled Bencao Gangmu, or Compendium of Materia Medica, is considered to be the most complete medical book written in the history of traditional Chinese medicine. This statue of Li is one of many that portray Chinese legend and folklore on display at Haw Par Villa. Originally called Tiger Balm Gardens, Haw Par Villa was built by Aw Boon Haw in 1937. A prominent businessman and philanthropist, Aw had built the gardens with the intention of educating the public about Chinese culture.
