Ceiling of Ganshoin temple at Obuse 

Katsushika Hokusai painted the ‘Ceiling of Ganshoin Temple at Obuse’ near the end of his life. Hokusai was already in his eighties when he created this work, and the commission offered him a means of support after a stroke left him in poor health. The phoenix in Japanese art symbolizes rebirth, triumph over adversity, and the balance between masculine and feminine energies. During the Edo period, when Hokusai was working, the cultural and political landscape of Japan was undergoing significant transformation. His creation of the phoenix at Ganshoin Temple reflects a deep connection to Japanese mythology and spiritual beliefs, resonating with the viewers who seek solace and inspiration in the face of societal change. The vibrant colors and intricate details encourage us to contemplate resilience, and perhaps find a mirror for our own struggles and triumphs.