Shoki was a famous Tang dynasty scholar who committed suicide after he failed to pass his civil service examination. Hearing of his noble death, the emperor honored him. In gratitude, Shoki’s spirit vowed to protect the emperor and his people and to expel all demons from the nation. Thus he became known as the “Demon Queller.” He is usually represented in art as a fierce looking bearded man, wearing a scholar’s hat and large boots. He is often shown catching or being bested by impish demons known as “oni.”