Hanging with Hōō and Pine Tree

Two mythical, immortal birds called hōō perch on a mature pine tree in this hanging. Hōō have been a repeated motif in Japanese art, including textiles, since the 600s C.E. In the conventional East Asian ideal, Hōō symbolized the good governance of the ruler, and it was believed that the birds appear when society is at peace. Textile makers embroidered these positive symbols with the pine tree, a favored motif in Japan for its symbolism of prosperity and longevity. This imagery filled with favorable messages was sent outside of Japan as export goods. Of the various techniques used in fine art textiles, embroidery attracted American and European customers the most.