Shōki, the Demon Queller

Art Historical Context

In the vibrant world of Edo-period Japan (1615–1868), Katsushika Hai, then a rising young artist around age 30, created *Shōki, the Queller* in 1790. This hanging scroll depicts the legendary Chinese figure Zhong Kui—known as Shōki Japan—a fierce warrior who vanquishes demons and protects households from evil spirits. Rendered in ink and color on silk, the painting measures 12¾ x 22½ inches, ideal for display during festivals like the Boys' Festival (Tango no Sekku), where such talismans warded off misfortune. Hokusai's early mastery shines through his dynamic brushwork, blending bold outlines with subtle color washes typical of traditional Japanese painting (nihonga). The silk medium allowed for luminous effects and portability, making it a cherished household item rather than a static temple piece. Though Hokusai later revolutionized ukiyo-e woodblock prints with works like *The Great Wave*, this scroll reveals his roots in figurative storytelling and supernatural themes. Culturally, Shōki embodied resilience and piety, resonating in a peaceful yet demon-haunted Edo society. Donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1914 from the Charles Stewart Smith Collection, it offers visitors a glimpse into Japan's folkloric artistry and Hokusai's enduring genius. (198 words)

About the Artist

Katsushika Hokusai · 1760–1849

Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) stands as one of history's most influential artists, a Japanese master who revolutionized the ukiyo-e woodblock print tradition and profoundly shaped Western art. Born in the Katsushika district of Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to an artisan family, Hokusai lived through nearly nine decades of extraordinary creative evolution, adopting over thirty different artistic names t...