Shōki, the Demon Queller

A man with a large, bushy beard and a wild-eyed glare contorts his face in a scowl. He wields a sword, used to intimidate even the most formidable demons. He wears a distinctive cap (幞头 fútóu), demonstrating his status as an official. Shōki 鍾馗 the Demon Queller, a legendary figure from Chinese religion and folklore, was a prominent subject in sculptures, paintings, and prints in Edo period Japan (1615–1868). Images of him were believed to protect the home from illness and evil.

In most versions of his origin story, Shōki was a scholar who took the government service examinations during China’s Tang dynasty (618–907 CE). But the emperor rejected him because of his fearsome appearance, resulting in Shōki’s suicide. Overcome with remorse, the emperor ordered that Shōki be granted an official court position and high honors. Shōki’s spirit then vowed to protect any emperor against demons.