Iconography has long been used in arts, mythology and religion to represent or express a meaning other than what is visually seen. The bird has been used throughout history in paintings and literature often with religious undertones for resurrection, everlasting life, peace and purity to name just a few. Various societies created mythical birds in legend and folklore with allegorical meanings. The Phoenix is one of the best known and is seen in both western and Asian mythology, but with different meanings. In the west the Phoenix symbolizes resurrection and eternity. It is a magical bird that lives for hundreds of year, then dies by bursting in to flame, and is reborn from its ashes. In Asian cultures, the Phoenix has connotations of unity between the feminine and the masculine. In China the legend is rooted in an ostrich-like bird first appearing almost 8000 years ago. Today, the imagery has morphed and the bird is a composite of several including the head of a golden pheasant, body of a mandarin duck, tail of a peacock, legs of a crane, a parrot-like mouth and wings of a swallow. The Phoenix represents justice and graciousness, who does not tolerate lies or abuse of power.

Patek Philippe’s “Les Phénix” is a wonderfully vibrant representation of this mythical bird. Executed in bright orange, red, brown, maroon and yellow hues, with a Phoenix to each panel and the solar domed top, they are displayed standing and inflight. The dark blue enamel background is enhanced with floral representations in light pink and green, with pink flamingos inflight across the dome. The clock has a dynamic fluidity with expression to the faces and ease of movement to the bodies. The enamel work is signed “DBD”.

Solar Dome clocks like the present have become highly collectible in the market today. Known for their solar powered quartz movement and highly skilled enamel work, they are both a mechanical object and a work of art. In excellent overall condition in vibrant colours, “Les Phénix” is a true collectible for connoisseurs.