China, circa 1750-1850 or slightly later. Sturdily potted, the slightly waisted sides finely decorated in bright enamels, gilt, and iron-red with a continuous scene depicting Zhong Kui fighting a group of demons in a rocky landscape detailed with a gnarled pine tree, craggy rocks, and bats. The grim and resolute demon hunter holds a demon by its long hair as the others look on in fear. The base with a small countersunk center encircled by a broad unglazed ring.

Provenance: From a private estate in Chicago, Illinois, United States.
Condition: Significant old wear. Firing irregularities including pits and dark spots. Some scratches, few tiny flakes and nicks, and minor frits around the foot and rim.

Weight: 2,332 g
Dimensions: Diameter 19.1 cm, Height 15.1 cm

Zhong Kui is the usually ferocious semi-mythical figure charged with chasing away the demons of evil fortune. Traditionally regarded as a vanquisher of 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 handled.

Zhong Kui was originally a highly educated individual who excelled in the imperial examinations. However, his success was unjustly stripped away by the emperor due to his appearance. Overwhelmed by grief and anger, Zhong Kui took his own life. Upon reaching the gates of the underworld, he was granted the title of King of Ghosts by the god Yama and tasked with hunting, capturing, and maintaining discipline and order among all ghosts. Zhong Kui is worshipped for his ability to rid homes and businesses of unruly evil spirits. With the assistance of subdued demons, he conducts nightly patrols to ensure order.

The story of Zhong Kui reflects the societal expectation for leaders to be just and moral. By upholding and promoting such stories, the Qing Emperors aimed to strengthen their own legitimacy and the moral foundation of their authority. Demonstrating commitment to these ideals also helped to build trust and acceptance among the populace.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Sotheby’s, New York, 20 March 2018, lot 324
Price: USD 15,000 or approx. EUR 17,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A famille-verte ‘carp’ brushpot, Qing dynasty, Kangxi period
Expert remark: While the subject matter of the two bitong differ, the manner of decoration, such as the stippling for the ground, and the enamel colors including the usage of iron red are related. The complexity of the subject on the present lot shows an evolution from the rather simple designs of the Kangxi era, and should thus be dated to a later period e.g. circa 1750-1850.