MEN SHEN

in Chinese mythology, the two door gods whose separate martial images are posted on the two halves of the double front door of private homes to guarantee protection from evil spirits. One tradition reports that two T'ang-dynasty generals stood guard at the imperial gates during a serious illness of T'ai Tsung (reigned AD 626649), who was grievously troubled by evil spirits. Their presence was so effective that the emperor ordered their pictures to be posted permanently on the gateswith salutary effects. At a later date another Men Shen was added and given custody of the rear door. The custom of having Men Shen standing guard at one's door quickly spread throughout China. During the New Year celebration, the images are refurbished in brilliant colours.