Kozuka with Shôki the Demon Queller

Description Shôki the Demon Queller is a legendary figure who originated in China. Shôki was an aspiring scholar in China who committed suicide when he failed the examinations to become a government official. The emperor, when he realized the degree of Shôki's commitment to service, awarded him the title of doctor. Shôki then appeared to the emperor in a dream where he vowed to protect the empire from demons to show his gratitude. Here, he is shown dressed in Chinese style armor and fighting a small demon.

Provenance Henry Walters, Baltimore [date and mode of acqusition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Inscriptions [Signature] Ichiryûsha Tomotoshi

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters