The charm of the legend of Phoenix

The origin and development of the phoenix in ancient Chinese mythology. Learn how it became the embodiment of auspiciousness, wisdom and beauty, and why it has been admired by successive literati. Delve into the cultural heritage of this legendary creature and its widespread influence.

Phoenix is one of the oldest mythical beasts of the Chinese nation, which was first recorded in the Shanhaijing and other documents. It is regarded as a sign of good luck and represents a happy life. From the bronzes of the pre-Qin period to the carvings on the stone reliefs of the Han Dynasty, to the colorful porcelain decorations of the Tang and Song Dynasties, the phoenix has always occupied an important position. Its image not only appeared in the palace buildings, but also was widely praised by the people. For thousands of years, countless poets and painters have recorded the beautiful phoenix in their hearts with their brushstrokes, so that this reverence can continue to this day.

The Historical Origin of the Birds and the Phoenix

The origin and historical evolution of the allusion of "birds facing the phoenix" are described. Analyze the profound meaning behind this idiom and explore its practical application cases in the political and social context of different periods. Through specific examples to illustrate its symbolic value.

As early as the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period, the image of "birds facing the phoenix" began to spread. "The phoenix is not the phoenix tree," this sentence implies that only the best leaders can win the support of the popular return. With the passage of time, this concept gradually expanded to the political field and became an indispensable part of the emperor's accession to the throne. After the Tang Dynasty, with the spread of Buddhism to the east, the phoenix also absorbed some of the essence of Buddhist thought and evolved into a sacred animal with religious color. No matter when and where, "birds facing the phoenix" means the spiritual strength to unite and forge ahead towards a common goal.

Phoenix and Bird in Art

Appreciate the numerous works depicting phoenix and flocks of birds, including paintings, sculptures and other handicrafts. Analyze how artists use different media and technical means to express the unique beauty of this theme. Feel the shock and thinking space brought by these masterpieces.

Whether it is traditional Chinese ink painting or colorful pictures in Western oil paintings, Phoenix can always attract the attention of the audience with its unique posture. For example, in the painting along the River during the Qingming Festival drawn by Zhang Zeduan in the Northern Song Dynasty, there are several delicate depictions of flying phoenixes, while in Europe during the Renaissance, there are many works of art created by combining phoenixes with other foreign elements. In addition, there are those finely crafted jade pendants, gold and silver jewelry and ceramic bottles and jars, etc., all show the craftsmen's unremitting pursuit of beautiful things. Each work is a witness of an era, let us appreciate the infinite possibilities.

Phoenix and Bird in the Literary World

Comb through historical fragments of classic literary works about phoenix and birds, such as depictions in poems, novels and even dramatic texts. Experience the emotional sustenance and spiritual connotation given by the author to the role. Discuss the positive role of such themes in shaping human values.

From Qu Yuan's "Li Sao", "the husband and wife are the precursors of Yu" to Li Bai's poem, "An undead medicine, fly high to Penglai." The ancients often used the phoenix to express their complex emotional changes. In the novel "Strange Tales of Liaozhai" in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, "Pianpian" describes the fairy incarnation as a white crane leading ordinary people to escape from the world, expressing the yearning for a world of freedom and equality. And Peking Opera star Mr. Mei Lanfang has also performed a traditional play called "The Drunken Concubine", in the play Yang Guifei sitting alone in the palace miss the long journey of the king, as if to hear the sound of sweet cries from the air ...... It is these touching text chapters that make us cherish the meaning of life more and cultivate a positive attitude towards life.

The Continuation of Phoenix Culture in Modern Society

Observe the various cultural and custom inheritance phenomena about phoenix that still exist in today's society, such as the image elements appearing in traditional festival celebrations or the pattern designs on folk handicrafts. Discover why people continue to pursue the good wishes conveyed by this ancient symbol.