Peacock Feather Fan c. 1938

Edna Rex created this watercolor of a Peacock Feather Fan at an unknown date. Here, the peacock's iridescent plumage is a potent symbol, laden with centuries of cultural meaning. In ancient Greece and Rome, the peacock was associated with Hera and Juno, goddesses of marriage and queenship. The bird's ‘eyes’ were believed to ward off evil, a protective emblem. Yet, the peacock is not confined to Western traditions. In Hinduism, it is linked to Lakshmi, symbolizing prosperity and patience, whereas in Buddhism, it represents wisdom. This duality is not a contradiction, but rather the very essence of the image’s power. Consider how this symbol reappears in Renaissance art, often associated with vanity, reflecting how symbols evolve over time. This image is like a cultural palimpsest, with layers of meaning that resonate with our collective memory.