A white phoenix with heart-tipped feathers is perched among pine and bamboo branches in this painting by Itō Jakuchū. The muted background allows the phoenix to stand out.

Itō Jakuchū (1716-1800) was a Japanese painter of the mid-Edo period, known for his detailed and unconventional depictions of birds and flowers. He broke from traditional styles, incorporating experimental techniques and a unique personal vision into his work. Jakuchū's art often features a playful approach to perspective and composition, combined with meticulous attention to detail. His work was admired by a circle of intellectuals and artists in Kyoto. He is considered one of the most important Japanese artists of his era. This painting, Rōsyō hakuhō-zu (Pine, Bamboo, and White Phoenix), presents a white phoenix perched among pine and bamboo branches. The phoenix, rendered with fine brushstrokes, has feathers tipped with small red heart shapes. The pine needles and bamboo leaves are depicted with careful precision. The background is a muted beige tone, allowing the white of the phoenix to stand out. A small bird is visible in the upper right corner, and a red sun is partially visible in the background.