China: 'Zhong Kui Going on Excursion'. Handscroll painting by Gong Kai (1222-1307), late 13th - early 14th century. Zhong Kui is a figure of Chinese mythology. Traditionally regarded as a vanquisher of ghosts and evil beings, and reputedly able to command 80,000 demons, his image is often painted on household gates as a guardian spirit, as well as in places of business where high-value goods are involved. Zhong Kui's popularity in folklore can be traced to the reign of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang (712-756).

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Size: 11616px × 2235px
Photo credit: © Pictures From History / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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