Menuki with phoenix pattern.

Menuki Omote: Length 38.5mm, Width 13mm, height 3.5mm

Menuki Ura: Length 42mm, Width 12.5mm, height 4mm

The Phoenix is ​​a mythological bird that is highly appreciated and respected in Japan.
The name of the Phoenix, Hoô 鳳凰, is composed of two Kanji, 鳳 representing the male Phoenix and 凰 the female Phoenix. Although it includes a male part, the Phoenix is ​​always considered a female entity.
It is the symbol of the empress, and is assimilated to the Dragon, symbol of the emperor. It is also said that it could only land on a single tree, the paulownia, which has become the Japanese imperial symbol.

It is a benevolent and peaceful being, representing justice, goodness, symbol of life and immortality. Living hidden, its appearance is exceptional and heralds the arrival on earth of a wise man, a philosopher or even an era of peace.
Like the Western Phoenix, the Eastern Phoenix has the ability to rise from its ashes. It is then the symbol of rebirth after destruction, a symbol of hope and good omen.

On the 10,000 yen notes, we find the drawing of a Phoenix statue. This statue can be seen at the Byodo-in temple in the southeast of Kyoto. This temple was built in 988 and today only one structure remains, the Hoô-Do, the 'Phoenix Hall'.