Zhong Kui’s story is intertwined with the legacy of the Tang Dynasty during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong from 712 to 756 AD. Achieving notable success that could have led to fame and prosperity, Zhong Kui instead faced devastating misfortune that ultimately drove him to end his life. Over time, a legendary version of Zhong Kui emerged, one who, now immortal, serves as a guardian against evil and a bringer of joy and fortune.
Today, Zhong Kui stands as a pivotal character in Peking Opera, celebrated for his vibrant portrayals. On April 20, a new collection of gold and silver coins was introduced in China, commemorating iconic figures from the Peking Opera. This series, recognized as the Peking Opera Facial Makeup Series, features a 100 yuan gold coin dedicated to Bao Zheng, an esteemed official from the Northern Song Dynasty renowned for justice and honesty. Additionally, two 10 yuan silver coins pay tribute to notable figures, including one for Dian Wei, a military leader serving under Cao Cao during the Han Dynasty, and the other for Zhong Kui, linked to the beloved opera “Zhong Kui Marries Off His Sister.”
Zhong Kui was distinguished as a brilliant scholar who excelled in the rigorous imperial examinations, positioning him for a prestigious career that promised affluence and esteem. Tragically, his physical disfigurement led to rejection of his hard-earned prospects; he was deemed too unattractive for the high office he deserved. Overwhelmed by despair, Zhong Kui took his own life by striking his head against a pillar.
The merging of history and legend in Chinese culture is exemplified by Zhong Kui’s transformation. The immortal Jade Emperor, moved by Zhong Kui’s fate, appointed him as a protector of humanity, tasked with confronting demons and malevolent spirits. Traditionally, images of Zhong Kui as the “Demon Slayer” have adorned Chinese homes, serving as a safeguard against evil. He’s also depicted in various charms and amulets, reinforcing his role as a guardian.
In these representations, Zhong Kui is usually portrayed as a formidable, bearded figure, brandishing his notable “Demon-Slaying” sword. Unique features of his attire, such as the projections on his hat, are understood to symbolize his ability to detect hidden dangers. Notably, a bat depicted above his head represents good fortune and happiness. This connection arises from a playful pun in the Chinese language, where the terms for “bat” (fu) and “happiness” (fu) share the same pronunciation. Furthermore, the bat’s reversed position suggests the phrase “happiness has arrived,” adding an additional layer of meaning to his imagery.
Zhong Kui’s characteristics in Peking Opera closely mirror those of his mythological counterpart. The makeup used in performances features a heavy beard, enhancing his facial features reminiscent of a bat. This connection to the bat symbolizes the joy he brings to people’s lives. A bat figure painted on Zhong Kui’s forehead reinforces the theme of happiness, while his red cheeks signify dignity. The black and white facial markings embody integrity, and his smiling expression reflects his good-natured character.
His head is painted red, symbolizing his tragic demise, yet the oval design atop his crown presents a stylized representation of the character for “longevity” (shou). Though Zhong Kui, in his mortal form, faced rejection and ultimately died in despair, the legendary figure has attained immortality, firmly established as a beloved persona in Peking Opera tradition. Over centuries, images of Zhong Kui have been cherished in countless households and worn as protective charms, embodying an enduring legacy of safeguarding against malevolent forces while ushering in happiness and prosperity.
