Rōsyō hakuhō-zu 

Curator: Look at the fantastical nature of this phoenix in Ito Jakuchu's painting. The name, which roughly translates to "White Phoenix with Rosy Crest," signals its unusual blend of realism and fantastical elements. Editor: My immediate impression is a kind of dreamlike serenity, even though the bird is quite large in scale and poised as if in mid-motion. The use of tempera gives it a soft, almost ethereal quality. Curator: Absolutely, the softness undermines a powerful symbolic charge. Phoenixes in art often symbolize rebirth and renewal, particularly in the context of imperial power and legitimacy. How do the colours used change that significance, if at all? Editor: The white plumage could stand for purity and, possibly, mourning. Think of the symbolism of white cranes in East Asian art – they signify longevity and a connection to the immortal realms. With those almost heart-shaped patterns, that runs into our concept of love and mortality too. The red highlights contrast strongly with the body and really drive home this dual association. Curator: An interesting reading. Though we see a phoenix, its striking difference from more familiar red and gold renderings and settings surely indicates different readings depending on where the painting hung. In the domestic setting, might it take on other levels of meaning for women or men? And would their reading differ for royal or commoner? Editor: Yes, these shifting meanings depending on the culture is important, of course! Regardless of our backgrounds though, its easy to pick up the emotional content given all the work the phoenix symbol has done over history. Curator: Ultimately, it remains an object that demands engagement from many angles: considering its style, material, cultural significance. Editor: Agreed! The piece speaks of transition, reminding us to reflect on change as we each walk along life's path.