The vermillion bird represents the element fire, the color vermilion red, the southern direction, and summer. The Shan Hai Jing describes the phoenix as being born on Dan Mountain. Also called the Dan Phoenix. The phoenix also refers to one of exceptional talent and was born in a south-facing valley at the South Pole, and symbolizes talent and lofty aspirations. The vermillion bird is said to bring prosperity, progeny, and peace. Vermilion red is also a celebratory color in traditional Asian culture for weddings and new business openings. This piece is an ingenious juxtaposition of detail and sparseness, color and transparency, space and form. The vermillion bird appears like the blazing sun, distant yet near, forever shining, representing our deepest wishes. The nature of glass transports the light and presents a space for imagination to spark. Associated with the four quadrants of the vault of heaven is the Azure dragon of the East, the Vermillion bird of the South, the white tiger of the West, and the black tortoise of the North; in the center is the Qilin (unicorn). Each region corresponds to one of the five elements: Metal (west), wood (east), water (north), fire (south), and earth (center). Moving across the night sky, the stars connect all life to the five elements. When the universe and elements are aligned, harmony ensues.
