An impressive glazed figure of the protective spirit of Shoki, or Chung Kuei as known in China, in flowing robes while holding an open fan with characters in right hand. Left hand is raised with fingers in a blessing position. A small stamped seal is found on the interior of the hollow form. Overall this figure measures apprx 25" H x 12" W. It is accompanied by a certificate of antiquity from Hong Kong, reviewed in 1978.
From the archives of Minneapolis Institute of Art- During the early T'ang Dynasty, Shoki was a physician in the province of Shensi, China. He was considered very ugly. Hoping to advance his career, he took the examinations required to enter government service. Although he performed brilliantly, Shoki's dreams of advancement were shattered. Some say Shoki was cruelly cheated out of first place. Others say he was awarded first place by the examiners, who praised his work, saying it was equal to that of the wisest ancients. But when Shoki was presented to the court, the emperor rejected him because he was so ugly. In shame, Shoki took his own life on the steps of the imperial palace, right in front of the emperor. Overcome with remorse, the emperor ordered that Shoki be buried with the highest honors, wrapped in a green robe usually reserved for members of the imperial clan. In gratitude, Shoki's spirit vowed to protect any ruler against the evil of demons. The popular story of Shoki was adopted from China, where he was known as Chung Kuei. During the Edo Period in Japan (1600-1868), families began to hang banners depicting Shoki inside and outside of their houses during the Boys' Day festival. Boys' Day is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar year. According to ancient tradition, this is a day when evil spirits and bad luck abounds. Images of Shoki ward off danger from the homes of families with male children.
3,000/4,000
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