Japanese Hand Painted Hanging Scroll Shoki Demon Binding Oni Kakejiku

This Japanese hand-painted hanging scroll (kakejiku) depicts Shoki (Zhong Kui), the legendary demon queller, in an unusual and humorous composition. Shoki is traditionally portrayed as a powerful figure who captures and drives away evil spirits.

In this painting, Shoki suspends a small oni (demon) by a thread while bending down to pick up his sword. The contrast between the imposing demon queller and the helpless, dangling oni gives the scene a playful character. This inventive depiction offers an interesting variation on the traditional Shoki subject in Japanese painting.

The painting is executed on silk and bears no visible signature or seal.

Overall size: 192 × 52.5 cm / 75.59 × 20.67 in
Painting size: 113 × 35 cm / 44.49 × 13.78 in

The scroll shows signs of age and use, including creases and discoloration.

Please check the photos carefully for details.