In Egyptian mythology the Phoenix is a
beautiful, legendary bird with a tail of gold and
crimson that lived in Arabia. Only one phoenix
exists at a time. Near the end of it’s 500 year
life cycle the phoenix builds a nest of cinnamon
twigs that it ignites; both nest and bird burn
fiercely and are consumed by the flames. A
new, young phoenix springs forth from the
ashes.
Names, descriptions and life-span vary in
different mythologies. In Egypt, the phoenix
represented the sun, which dies at night and is
reborn in the morning.
The Greeks identified it with their word
phoenix meaning the color crimson. According
to the Greeks the phoenix lived in Phoenicia
next to a well. At dawn, it baths in the water of
the well and sings an enchanting song. So
beautiful is this song that the sun god Helios
(Apollo) stops his chariot (the sun) to listen.
Early Christian tradition adopted the phoenix as
a symbol of both immortality and resurrection.
Modern folklore uses the magnificent creature
as a symbol of renewal, rebirth, and starting
anew.
5 of 16 Comments Show All 16 Comments
cathy sharpe 25 Jan 2010
This is awesome Diana, very impressive portfolio of works!Cathy Jones 11 Aug 2009
Incredible work Diana! Absolutely wonderful fascinating piece!Anonymous Guest 08 Aug 2009
Love this oneRebecca Heaton 26 Apr 2009
simply...wonderful!!! I have always thought the phoenix is our most mysterious creature. I kinda wonder if they still exist.janae anderson 21 Mar 2008
WOW! brilliant work Diana!