Zhong Kui钟馗

Zhong Kui is the legendary ghost hunter of Chinese folklore, a fierce protector who drives away evil spirits. A brilliant scholar with a fearsome bearded face, he was unjustly denied the highest honor in the imperial examination and, in despair, ended his life at the palace gates. The emperor, moved by his loyalty, honored him and appointed him the Ghost Catcher, charged with quelling demons. Armed with a sword and dressed in the judge's cap and official robes, Zhong Kui leads an army of bats and spirits to guard homes from evil, especially during the lunar new year. His image is posted on doors as a talisman of protection and good fortune.