Returned to lender The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Banner with Shōki, the Demon Queller
Utagawa (Gountei) Sadahide Japanese
Not on view
This large hand-painted banner depicts the legendary seventh-century scholar-physician Shōki (Chinese: Zhong Kui) with a sword, scholar’s robes and hat, and his characteristically large eyes, bulbous nose, and fierce expression. Shōki became known as the “Demon Queller” after his death. Denied first rank in the Chinese civil service, he committed suicide. When the emperor heard his story he was buried with honors. In gratitude, Shōki appeared to the emperor in a dream vowing to defeat disease-causing demons. Shōki’s story became popular in Japan during the Edo period, particularly around Boys’ Day, whose celebration ensured that children grew up healthy and strong. People raised large banners of the scholar turned “Demon Queller” outside their homes to ward off evil spirits and disease, and invite strength and vitality.
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