CHINE, DYNASTY QING, XIXÈME SIÈCLE

Kui Xing, the deity depicted atop the ao, is venerated as the patron of scholars and the imperial examination system. According to legend, he rewards diligent candidates by granting them the title of zhuangyuan (top scholar) and ensuring success in civil service. Traditionally, images of Kui Xing were employed to inspire scholarly ambition, symbolize academic achievement, and invoke good fortune in examinations.