Description
A large pentacle is the centerpiece of this card. The pentacle was carved into a large, square-shaped piece of stone, and was designed to be used as an altar centerpiece. The stone pentacle is offset by a green background with golden maple leaves. In the center of the pentacle is a four-sided, malachite pyramid. There are nine golden coins to represent the nine pentacles of this card: one coin is placed at each point of the star, and within the star, there are four coins placed at the corners of the pyramid.
Symbolism
The pentacle in Tarot represents the Earth element; however, the five points of the star actually represent all five elements: Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Spirit (Akasha). The four-sided, malachite pyramid at the center of the pentacle is a natural earth element, as is the stone base underneath it. Malachite is a green stone that is associated with the earth sign of Taurus, and its properties include psychic protection, confidence, prosperity and love.
The nine coins are divided into two groups: the five on the outer edge of the pentacle are placed upon each point of the star, representing the five elements. This is significant because it is believed that everything in existence is made up of one or more of these elements. The number five signifies independence, curiosity, adaptability and confidence. The four coins inside the pentacle are also significant numerically: four represents stability, balance, structure and harmony.
My vision for this card was to incorporate both the natural and materialistic aspects of the pentacles suit. The malachite and stone pentacle, as well as the leaf design, are natural objects that represent the earth element; the colors of brown, gold and green are also associated with both nature and money. I used actual currency, the Sacagawea golden U.S. dollar, to represent the idea of material wealth and financial security.
Card Meaning
The Nine of Pentacles represents the idea of independence, luxury, a comfortable home environment and having the freedom to enjoy the fruits of one's labor. This is a person who has worked hard to achieve a certain level of success and is now able to appreciate the good things in life. It is really about having the financial security to be able to live life on one's own terms. Without financial burdens, one is free to explore his or her deepest desires, go after what he/she really wants... as well as appreciate the simple pleasures in life. Financial security and comfort provide the road to personal freedom and happiness.
Artistic Media
The artist used a digital camera to photograph the objects.
Photoimpression 4 was used to edit and resize the photograph.
MS Paint was used to add the label; the font is Vivaldi Script.
Artist's Bio
Karen is a 36-year-old student of life who is still trying to figure out what she wants to do when she grows up. She discovered Tarot almost three years ago, and was fortunate to join the Aeclectic Forum in February of 2003. With the support of this community, and through continued study of Tarot, Karen has rediscovered her passion for writing, love of artwork and the desire to learn and grow in spirit.
Since childhood, Karen has enjoyed looking at, and sometimes creating, pretty pictures…it was only a matter of time before she discovered the world of Tarot, and to appreciate the beauty of its expression through the vision of so many talented artists.
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