Capes with this quality of artistic work were worn almost exclusively as part of a parade uniform. The image is of a Phoenix engulfed in flames. Mythology states that the bird lives for hundreds of years before spontaneously burning to death. From the ashes, a new Phoenix is born. This story of destruction by fire and rebirth from ashes made the Phoenix a popular emblem for firemen. This cape likely belonged to a member of the Phoenix Hose Company of Philadelphia whose parade hats display the same detailed image.