Johann Friedrich Böttger was a German alchemist born in 1682, best known for his role in the invention of European porcelain. He worked in the service of Augustus the Strong, the Elector of Saxony, who was eager to discover the secret of making porcelain, a highly valued material at the time. Böttger's experiments eventually led to the creation of the first true porcelain in Europe around 1708. Böttger's success in porcelain production established the Meissen porcelain factory, which became famous for its high-quality ceramics. His work not only revolutionized the pottery industry in Europe but also contributed to the broader field of chemistry and material science. Böttger died in 1719, leaving a lasting legacy in both art and science.