Sen no Rikyū was a prominent Japanese tea master in the 16th century, known for his profound influence on the art of chanoyu, or tea ceremony. He emphasized simplicity, naturalness, and the spiritual aspects of tea preparation, which transformed the practice into a meditative experience. Rikyū's philosophy centered around the concept of wabi-sabi, appreciating beauty in imperfection and transience. His teachings laid the foundation for the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, and he is often regarded as the most significant figure in its history, shaping the cultural landscape of Japan through his innovative approach to tea.