Mythological phoenix bird

The phoenix is a conception that combines all that is beautiful in the kingdom of birds. The Chinese character feng means male phoenix and empire; his name thus implies that he is the emperor of birds. The Chinese term, feng huang, is made up of the characters feng, the male, and huang, the female. That combination could perhaps be translated as "crested love pheasants."

The phoenix exhibits all the symbolism of the Chinese religious and ethical tradition. The tail feathers are of five colors, representing the five cardinal virtues: benevolence, justice, courtesy, wisdom and sincerity.