Artistic Heritage of Zhong Kui
Journey through centuries of artistic interpretation, from Tang dynasty masterpieces to contemporary digital art
Although the earliest creator of Zhong Kui's image was the great Tang dynasty painter Wu Daozi, the earliest and most credible extant depiction is the Southern Song handscroll 'Zhongshan Going on Excursion' by Gong Kai, now in the Freer Gallery of Art, USA. In Gong Kai's humorous and imaginative painting, Zhong Kui and his sister are shown riding in sedan chairs. A retinue of slave-demons accompany them and carry Zhong Kui's sword, bundles of household goods, pots of wine, and smaller demons they have captured.
This masterpiece depicts Zhong Kui being carried by a group of little demons as he patrols on a snowy night. The surrounding rocks are covered in snow, the vegetation is bleak, and a chill pervades the scene. In traditional Chinese painting, deities and ghosts are a distinct genre, different from the vivid realism of figures and animals. The images of spirits and demons come from imagination, and the painter gives these non-existent beings a believable form. This painting uses the 'nail-head and mouse-tail' brushwork, with strong, forceful lines. The demons have ferocious and sly faces, while Zhong Kui's gaze is sharp and dignified, exuding an aura of authority. The background is rendered in light ink to highlight the night and the snow-laden rocks.
This hanging scroll by Fang Xun depicts a classic image of Zhong Kui: bristling beard and hair, a striking and extraordinary appearance, and wide-open eyes gazing in surprise at the wine cup offered by a little demon in front of him. The style and brushwork show some influence from Chen Hongshou.
This work uses outline, shading, and freehand brushwork to depict Zhong Kui as a scholar scolding a little demon, with vivid expressions and dynamic composition. The painting conveys a sense of righteousness and effectively wards off evil.
Painted by Xu Beihong during the 1938 Dragon Boat Festival in Chongqing, this work shows Zhong Kui in official robes and black boots, sword at his waist, looking back over his shoulder. Xu Beihong's Zhong Kui is upright and dignified, less grotesque than traditional depictions, and often accompanied by little demons. By blending Western sketching with Chinese techniques, Xu made Zhong Kui more realistic and humane. Here, a small demon with a fruit tray and wine pot contrasts with Zhong Kui’s resolute figure.
Technique
Ink and color on paper
Dimensions
101 x 62 cm
Lin Yueping cleverly combines the upright and unyielding Zhong Kui from traditional mythology with zodiac elements. The dignified Taoist deity appears together with an adorable pink pig, creating a sense of approachability. The festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival is vividly expressed, and viewers can't help but marvel at this playful take on Zhong Kui's demon-slaying story, which, after thousands of years, finally has a 'behind-the-scenes' version, making the character feel even more endearing and lovable.
Artistic Evolution Through Time
From the bold strokes of Tang masters to contemporary digital interpretations, Zhong Kui's artistic legacy continues to inspire and evolve.
Classical Period
Tang through Qing dynasties established the iconic visual language
Modern Transition
20th century artists blended traditional and Western techniques
Digital Age
Contemporary artists explore new mediums while honoring tradition