The first in what will hopefully be a series of tarot-inspired pieces, based on the beautiful Rider Waite deck from 1910. This piece features the Hierophant, the 5th card of the Major Arcana.
From the Wikipedia page: “In many modern packs, the Hierophant is represented with his right hand raised in what is known esoterically as the blessing or benediction, with two fingers pointing skyward and two pointing down, thus forming a bridge between Heaven and Earth reminiscent of that formed by the body of The Hanged Man. The Hierophant is thus a true “pontiff”, in that he is the builder of the bridge between deity and humanity. In his left hand he held a triple cross. The Hierophant was also known as “The Teacher of Wisdom.”
The figure and keys are embossed, tiny gems are set in his crown, and I have added the lettering and background detail with patina solution. It’s set in an ornate black wooden frame.