Phoenix 

This dynamic image of a Phoenix was painted by the Japanese artist Hokusai with ink and color on silk. Notice the dense layering of ink and pigment, brought to life by the delicate texture of the silk support. The artist uses fine brushes to capture the mythical bird, a symbol of rebirth. Look closely, and you can see the careful brushstrokes that define the creature's plumage and form. Hokusai's skill in woodblock printing surely influenced his painting technique, with clearly defined outlines and flat planes of color. Yet, the freehand nature of the painting allows for a greater sense of spontaneity and expressiveness. The use of costly materials, like silk and mineral pigments, signals the patron's wealth, as does the sheer amount of painstaking work involved. By looking at the artist's materials and processes, we can appreciate the social and cultural values embedded in this magnificent work.