• Title: The Hierophant

• Artist: Justin Aversano

• Medium: Silkscreen on papyrus

• Dimensions: 16” x 24”

• Price: $400

• Edition: 1/5

• Year: 2021

-Additional Information: The Hierophant is the masculine counterpart to the High Priestess. He is also known as the Pope or the Teacher in other Tarot decks, and is ruled by Taurus. The Hierophant is a religious figure sitting between two pillars of a sacred temple – though this temple is different to the one in which the High Priestess sits. He wears three robes – red, blue and white – and a three-tiered crown, both representing the three worlds over which he rules (the conscious, sub-conscious and super-conscious). In his left hand, he holds the Papal Cross, a triple sceptre that signifies his religious status. His right hand is raised in the position of a religious blessing, with two fingers pointing towards Heaven and two pointing down towards Earth. Before him kneel two initiates or followers. The Hierophant’s task is to pass down his spiritual wisdom and bring the two initiates into the church so that they can take up their appointed roles. This symbolises entry into all types of institutions where there is a shared group identity and a rite of passage to enter the next level. The crossed keys at the feet of the Hierophant represent a balance between the conscious and subconscious minds and the unlocking of mysteries, which only the Hierophant can teach.