Explanation of Famous Paintings of Figures -- Zhong Kui

Author: Li Shuyun et al.
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-03-01
Features: Zhong Kui is a renowned ghost-catching hero in Chinese folklore and also a deity worshipped by the people for warding off evil spirits. Folk beliefs hold that Zhong Kui can catch and consume ghosts, and it is believed that hanging an image of Zhong Kui can protect homes, ward off evil, and bring blessings. Many painters throughout history have depicted Zhong Kui, expressing their admiration for justice and disdain for corruption and evil. Mao Zedong once said, "Zhong Kui paintings are China's comics. Comics can be broadly or narrowly defined, and some argue for unity while others for diversity. I advocate the latter." Since Wu Daozi began painting images of Zhong Kui in the Tang Dynasty, literati painters and folk artisans have created a series of Zhong Kui illustrations. Among folk deities, Zhong Kui illustrations are one of the most vibrant, becoming auspicious paintings for warding off evil and attracting blessings, and are widely loved by people. However, when Zhong Kui was depicted as a guardian against evil, painters such as Yan Hui in the Yuan Dynasty and Dai Jin in the Ming Dynasty often portrayed him in a fearsome manner. After Ren Bo in the late Qing Dynasty, Zhong Kui was depicted as a lovable and kind figure, making him even more charming. This book specially selects and compiles Zhong Kui paintings by contemporary masters, presenting them as a unique artistic form that, with its special value and charm, has become a rare gem in the grand garden of Chinese art.