The figure leans upon his staff and has an expectant look, as if awaiting an enemy. Behind are eight other staves – erect, in orderly disposition, like a palisade.

Reversed Meaning:

Obstacles, adversity, calamity, troubles.

He rides a slow but steady horse, which is just like him. He holds the pentacle, but does not look therein.

Upright Meaning:

Utility, service, interest, responsibility, rectitude, authority, obligation, accountability, work, trust.

A young man stands in the act of proclamation. He is unknown but faithful, and his tidings are strange.

Upright Meaning:

Dark young man, faithful, a lover, family intelligence, a messenger, favourable testimony. A dangerous rival, if followed by the Page of Cups.

A disdainful man looks after two retreating and dejected figures. Their swords lie upon the ground. He carries two others on his left shoulder, and a third sword is in his right hand, point to earth. He is the master in possession of the field.

Reversed Meaning:

Degradation, destruction, revocation, infamy, dishonour, desperation, defeat, disappointment, dissolution.

Seated on her throne, the Empress holds up the golden sceptre. She represents the archetypal female.

Reversed Meaning:

The unravelling of important matters, vacillation, difficulty, doubt, ignorance, over-possessiveness, smothering.