After 1624

Zhong Kui the Demon Queller

Artist/maker unknown

Known as the fearless captor of ghosts and evil spirits in both China and Japan, Zhong Kui is one of the most frequently portrayed figures of Chinese folklore. Supernatural stories about Zhong appear early on in the Song dynasty (960–1279), where it is accounted that he subjugated two demons for Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang dynasty (618–906). Based on this legend, portraits of Zhong are hung during the Lunar New Year to help expel evil spirits.

This painting shows the stout Zhong Kui wearing ceremonial attire of an official, holding a stack of books in one hand and carrying a stringed instrument under his other arm. This is most likely intended to demonstrate the cultural refinement of this boorish-looking warrior, who, as the legend relates, once achieved top rank in the civil service examination.