The Phoenix is a many-storied bird of legend. Ovid wrote that after a Phoenix lived five hundred years, it would build a nest with cinnamon, spikenard, and myrrh, and "therein expires and breathes out its final breath amongst odors. From its body a young Phoenix issues forth, destined to live as long as its predecessor."
A symbol of rebirth and regeneration, the Phoenix has been adopted as an emblem at various times by diverse groups and people, from Templars to Magicians to Christians.
Depicted here with the three principles, Sulphur, Salt, and Mercury, the Phoenix is seen being consumed by fire (or is it rising from it?) with wings spread, illuminating all. Taken from the original woodcut illustration by Liv Rainey-Smith for Robert Fitzgerald's "Bestiarum Arcanum," Phoenix is printed in khaki ink on a 100% cotton shirt.
Design Copyright Liv Rainey-Smith, used under license.
