Ceramic Figurine - Wood-Fired Shoki by Mizuki Yoshida

Mizuki Yoshida's Craftsmanship

Shoki Statue, Infused with a Wish to Ward Off Evil

A ceramic doll of Shoki (Zhong Kui) created by Kyoto-based ceramist Mizuki Yoshida.

With a sharp gaze, a long beard, and a sword in hand, this Shoki statue is stately and dignified. Shoki, cherished since ancient times as a symbol of warding off evil and misfortune, is expressed here with a powerful yet warm ceramic form.

While honoring the traditional form of Shoki, each piece is handcrafted, resulting in a work of art with a strong presence.

What is Shoki?

Shoki is a legendary figure from ancient China.

Depicted with a long beard, dressed in official attire, and holding a sword, he is a dignified figure widely revered for dispelling evil spirits and calamities.

Shoki-san Protecting Kyoto's Town

In Kyoto, there is a culture of placing Shoki-san on rooftops as a charm to protect homes from disaster.

Looking up at the tiled roofs of Kyoto's machiya houses, you might encounter small Shoki statues perched on eaves or small roofs, seemingly watching over the streets.

Like gargoyles and Okinawa's Shisa, it's one of Kyoto's distinctive scenes, born from the desire to protect buildings and the integration of regional life.

Even today, with fewer tiled roofs and machiya houses, Kyoto's streets still have homes displaying Shoki-san, preserving this custom.

Mizuki Yoshida's Craftsmanship

Mizuki Yoshida began making Shoki statues after encountering them on the roofs of Kyoto's machiya houses during her university days.

Drawn by their unique presence, she continues to create them herself, delving into Shoki's history and form.

A sharp gaze, a beard and clothing that seem to flutter in the wind, a firmly gripped sword. While inheriting the characteristics of historical Shoki statues, the soft expressions and textures created by shaping the clay by hand are unique charms of this work.

From small, palm-sized pieces to large statues that become the focal point of a space, each piece has a unique expression born from craftsmanship.

Shoki-san for Modern Living

Although traditionally placed on rooftops, Shoki-san is also recommended as an ornament for modern homes, such as entryways, living rooms, or shops.

It can be incorporated into your life as a lucky charm to ward off evil and misfortune, as well as an objet d'art that celebrates Kyoto's cultural heritage and ceramic craftsmanship.

It is also recommended as a gift for new homes, business openings, or for those overseas who appreciate Japanese culture.

Comment from the Owner

This Shoki-san is of impressive size, becoming the centerpiece of any space simply by being placed there.

Despite its stern and dignified expression, perhaps because it's made of clay, it also feels somehow approachable and reliable to look at.

This is a special piece fired in a climbing kiln, where firewood is continuously burned. The natural firing colors and patterns created by the flame and ash are unique to the climbing kiln. You can enjoy the handcrafted artistry and the unique character of the kiln, as no two pieces are exactly alike.

It's a piece I highly recommend for occasions such as housewarming gifts, opening celebrations, or gifts for international acquaintances who appreciate Japanese culture.