Object number1957.9.2
One Hundred Birds Turn Toward the Phoenix
DateNd
Artist
Currently Unidentified
CultureChinese
MediumColors on silk mounted on paper, mounted on fabric
DimensionsOverall (Open): 20 1/2 × 443 3/8 in. (52.1 × 1126.2 cm)
Image: 19 11/16 × 212 5/8 in. (50 × 540.1 cm)
Image: 19 11/16 × 212 5/8 in. (50 × 540.1 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Frank L. Babbott (Elizabeth French, class of 1914)
On View
On viewPeriodMing dynasty (1368-1644)
Classification(s)
Terms
Label TextThe mythical phoenix, associated with immortality and regeneration, has appeared in Mediterranean, Arabian, and Asian cultures for centuries. Destroyed by fire only to re-emerge stronger and more beautiful than before, the phoenix represents the transformation that can take place in the wake of complete destruction. In this composition, peacocks stand on the riverbank as ducks float nearby and dozens of bird species populate the trees, while sparrows, thrushes, and others soar and cavort in the sky. The painting details display the artist’s mastery of fine “iron wire” brush strokes, while the blue-green rock formations reference innovations made in the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), an era that is considered a peak of Chinese artistic achievement.
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge.
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Nigensha Publishing Company
Early 11th c (original); 1980(reproduction)
Culture: Chinese
