Zhong Kui the Demon Queller

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Zhong Kui the Demon Queller

After 1624

Artist/maker unknown, Chinese

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.

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Object Details

Title:

Zhong Kui the Demon Queller

Date:

After 1624

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Chinese

Medium:

Ink on silk; mounted as a hanging scroll, framed

Dimensions:

6 feet 5/8 inches × 39 5/8 inches (184.5 × 100.6 cm)

Classification:

Paintings

Credit Line:

Gift of Charles H. Ludington, 1925

Accession Number:

1925-87-1

Geography:

Made in China, Asia

Context:

Dynasty: Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) or later

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