Peacock

The Peacock is one of the most powerful and noble symbols, representing beauty, immortality, and compassion.
​Its luxurious tail, adorned with a “hundred eyes,” is not only an image of dazzling beauty and high status but also a talisman that brings good fortune, fame, and protection from evil.
​However, in Asia, its symbolism is even deeper. In Buddhism, the peacock (Kujaku) is a symbol of supreme wisdom. According to legends, it is capable of consuming poison (such as from snakes) and transforming it into the radiant beauty of its plumage. This is a metaphor for the enlightened mind, which takes in the suffering and ignorance of the world and turns them into pure compassion.
​Thus, the peacock is not just an emblem of beauty, but also an embodiment of spiritual triumph and transformation.

Takamaki-e on Giobi Nashiji-nuri, the relieves were done with Takamaki-e technique with Sumiko-Urushi and Ikkaki-Urush, Gold and silver Marufun, Mother-of-pearls: Paua. The size of this Manju netsuke is 2 inches across, ½ inch thick. 2009. Private collection.