Vivid Soaring Phoenix

The phoenix is revered as one of the four sacred mythical creatures, symbolizing peace, harmony, and auspicious fortune. Its radiant, five-colored plumage has earned it the title “King of Birds,” a majestic presence believed to appear only in times of great prosperity.

This sacred phoenix is meticulously crafted using mizuhiki, a traditional Japanese decorative art.
Mizuhiki is made by tightly twisting washi paper and coating it to create strong, elegant cords—a craft that has supported Japan’s gift-giving culture for over 600 years. Each knot carries the wish of “connecting people,” and its structure, which tightens when pulled and is difficult to unravel, represents enduring bonds and good fortune.

In this piece, the colors and symbolism of the Yin-Yang and Five Elements philosophy are woven into the mizuhiki cords, deepening the phoenix’s meaning of harmony, renewal, and auspicious energy. Layer upon layer of mizuhiki creates a vivid, three-dimensional figure that brings a graceful presence and a gentle flow of positive energy to any space.

A fusion of symbolism and traditional craftsmanship, this unique artwork makes a meaningful gift or a timeless interior piece to be cherished for years to come.

Width：65cm
Depth : 38cm
Height：65cm
Weight：1,200g

Paper

MIZUHIKI MOTOYUI GENDA

MIZUHIKI / JAPANESE DECORATIVE KNOTS

About 1,400 years ago / 600s / Asuka Period (592–710)

Mizuhiki is traditionally linked to ceremonial cords attached to gifts brought back by Japanese envoys from China. From court gift etiquette it spread through warrior and merchant society, evolving into thin paper cords whose colors and knots communicate whether an occasion is a wedding, birth, memorial or other event.

In Japan, mizuhiki works like a visual language for gifts. A knot that should not be repeated is used for marriage, while an easily retied bow suits celebrations that may happily happen again. The knot itself conveys meaning before the package is opened.

Mizuhiki began as part of wrapping, yet the knot eventually became the main object. Paper cords can be transformed into cranes, turtles, pine branches and other three-dimensional forms, and today the technique appears in jewelry and art. A culture of packaging has effectively evolved into sculpture.

Individual Differences

As each piece is individually handcrafted, slight variations in color, pattern, shape, and texture may occur. These subtle differences are a natural characteristic of handcrafted works, making each piece truly unique. We hope you will enjoy these individual variations as part of the beauty and character of Japanese craftsmanship.

Production Time

If an item is not currently in stock, it may be made to order by the artisan. As each piece is carefully handcrafted, production may take several months depending on the item and the artisan's schedule. We appreciate your patience and understanding.