I came across a Mercury in Gemini election early in 2021. As it was the only suitable Mercury election in my part of the world this year I wanted to take the opportunity to make a talismanic piece that really pushed me as an artist. I spent an evening reading through the many figures of Mercury in the Picatrix and Agrippa, and it was the figure of the Lion that formed a complete image in my mind. I awoke the next morning with the vision for these rings. The qualities of this talisman being braveness and protection from illness, felt particularly relevant for our current times.
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With the creation of these talisman rings it was of utmost importance that I give Saturn their due. This meant that while the rings were made strictly to astrological timing, this project would only be finished in Saturn’s time. I began this project thinking Saturn’s gifts could be cultivated primarily through hard work and discipline. As an artist I know that the most beautiful works of art are often born out of suffering and struggle. And while it is true that Saturn rewards those who are prepared to work hard, it was through this endeavor I realized there is so much more to this planet. A deep dive into mythology and archetypal literature followed, along with much time spent in writing and contemplation. I was compelled to deconstruct Saturnian qualities on a fundamental and psychological level. Ultimately discovering how Saturn can act as a catalyst for psychic transformation, leading to greater consciousness and fulfillment.
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Vega is the brightest star in the constellation known in the west as Lyra. As the 14th of the 15 fixed Behenian Stars Vega has long been invoked in talismanic magic. In the Three Books of Occult Philosophy, Agrippa details the making and qualities of a Vega talisman “according to Hermes opinion… Under the Vulture, they made the image of a Vulture or Hen, or of a traveller it maketh a man magnanimous and proud, it giveth power over devils and beasts." [2] The BM Bodleian expresses a similar sentiment but adds “[is strong against] demons, nightmares and fears to it’s protective qualities.”[3]
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Alphecca is found in the constellation of Corona Borealis. The Greeks knew Corona as Στέφανος (Stephanos), meaning ‘crown’ or ‘wreath’. According to Greek mythology it is the golden crown worn by Princess Ariadne of Crete when she married the God Dionysus. The crown is said to have been made by Hephaestus, the god of fire, and was studded with jewels. When Ariadne died (for she was a mortal woman) Dionysus tossed her crown into the sky where its jewels transformed into stars.
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