Johfra Bosschart was so prolific as an artist that I’m continually discovering paintings of his I’ve never seen before. What I find most impressive about his output is how many thoughtful, meaningful details are packed into all of his works. His rendition of Aries is no different.  As an example, toward the bottom of the painting, you’ll see Thistle growing in the left-hand corner. Thistle is a thorny plant and is known to have a correspondence with Mars, the ruling planet of Aries. I also love the fact that on more than one occasion in his zodiac series he included figures from the tarot. To the left, you’ll see none other than The Magician who points his wand upward, this is a symbolic parallel to the soldier who holds a lit torch. I’m also intrigued by the woman on the right who holds a flame yet is blindfolded and searches in darkness. According to Bosschart himself, this is an expression of Avidya, whose name in Sanskrit means “ignorance, misconceptions, misunderstandings and incorrect knowledge”.  As always, there’s more to discover and ponder if you take the time to look. What do you see? I’d love to know. :: I’m Mario, I offer tarot readings & private lessons. You can book by text 503.893.4606, DM or through SymbolicStudies.com. #aries #ram #mars #arieseason #theemperor #astrology #zodiac #horoscope #tarot #occult #symbolism #spring #equinox #springequinox #bosschart