Chinese Figure of Zhong Kui Demon Hunter

A small demon is pinned underfoot, and the beard alone looks capable of finishing the job.

This figure of Zhong Kui, demon hunter, is from China and is contemporary, carved in boxwood. Zhong Kui is a much-loved figure of Chinese folklore, generally described as a scholar who became a vanquisher of evil spirits, and his image is often hung or displayed to ward off misfortune. Here he crouches on a base of swirling clouds, a sword raised over his shoulder. One hand grips a small grimacing demon by the head. His robe is carved with scrolling medallions, and the honey-colored wood is polished smooth. It is 4 inches high and 3.5 in diameter.

The demon looks like it already regrets everything.