This fantastic jade carving is of one of China’s most beloved protectors, Zhong Kui, the Ghost Chaser. Though it is quite likely that he was an historical figure, the legend of Zhong Kui far surpasses that of a mortal man. According to folklore, Zhong Kui traveled from his homeland to take part in the Imperial Examinations at the capital. This enabled even a poor peasant to be accepted into the literati. He achieved high honors in the exams, but because he was very ugly, the Emperor stripped him of his won title of “Zhuangyuan”. In anger and frustration, Zhong Kui dashed his head against the palace gate repeatedly until his head broke. Because he committed suicide, Zhong Kui was banished to hell, but because of his high intelligence and his motivation, he was soon admired and took command of an army of demon soldiers to help him destroy evil spirits and demons.

According to Song Dynasty sources, the Emperor Xuanzong, 712 to 756 AD, of the Tang Dynasty was gravely ill. He dreamed that a small demon ghost appeared and stole treasures from the Emperor and taunted him. A larger demon ghost appeared before the Emperor and introduced himself as Zhong Kui. He said he had sworn to rid the empire of evil, whereupon he tore the smaller demon apart and ate him. Upon awakening, the Emperor had fully recovered from his illness. He ordered Wu Daozi, the court painter, to paint an image of Zhong Kui wearing the hat of an official so that the other officials would know of his rank. He is known not only as the vanquisher of evil, but also as the protector of scholars. In this remarkable large carving, Zhong Kui holds a sword in one hand and a snake in the other. It is a remarkable work of art that I have been proud to have held.