Zhong Kui (Shōki)

SHOH-kee

📖 Detailed Description

Shoki, a demon-quelling deity spread across East Asia from Tang dynasty lore, took root in Japan as a talismanic power against calamity and smallpox. He is depicted as a bearded martial figure in official robes and cap, glaring with fierce eyes and wielding a sword in one or both hands. He often appears hunting, trampling, or bagging small demons. At New Year and Boys’ Festival he is displayed on hanging scrolls, banners, and screens, and many townhouses placed ceramic Shoki figures on eaves or roof corners. In Japan the earliest examples trace back to late Heian apotropaic paintings; from the Muromachi period the theme became established, and by late Edo he also appeared as May Festival dolls. Images and figures were hung at entrances, gates, or the upper seat of reception rooms to stop plague deities and malign spirits. Although dedicated shrines are limited today, regional folk belief since early modern times continues, and rooftop Shoki statues are still found from Kinki through the Chubu region. His powers are symbolized by the subduing glare and swordplay that drive off evil sprites, functioning as amulets against drug harm and epidemics.