The Artist's Concept
Rachel Pollack's illumination of the Five and Six of Pentacles in her book 78 Degrees of Wisdom was the spark that ignited my interest in these two cards. Her multi-faceted descriptions of poverty and generosity inspired me to try to create pictures of these themes that were just as intricate.
Quentin Massys shows a moneychanger and his wife in this computer-manipulated image of a 16th century painting. He is measuring out their money, weighing the coins and counting their value. Some of these coins are meant to be donated to the poor, because it is the right thing to do. But the moneychanger is careful, though, not to give away too much. His wife, with her prayer book open before her, wishes he would be more generous; she feels they have enough money, and should share their wealth with others.
Above the moneychanger's head is a manifestation of his wife's desires. This Spirit of Generosity casts six shining, gold coins into the outstretched hand of the Spirit of Want. Will the moneychanger be influenced, and increase his donation? Or will he give only the minimum that their social status calls for?
Card Meaning
Measured generosity; being generous in action, but perhaps not in heart; encouraging generosity in others. (No reversed meaning.)
Card Media
Picture collage from art and sculpture books, combined with imagination and Paint Shop Pro.
Go back to the project index, read the traditional card meaning, or get a free automated reading.
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