Atu IV - The Emperor - Thoth Tarot - Aleister Crowley 

Lady Frieda Harris painted this card, "The Emperor," for the Thoth Tarot deck. It's awash in symbols of authority and power. See the rams behind the figure? The ram, associated with Aries, embodies masculine energy and assertive leadership. The Emperor holds a scepter, a symbol of dominion, while a globe rests in his other hand, representing worldly power. But look closer; there’s a star atop the globe. Here, we see how symbols transform. The star, often associated with divine guidance, tops a symbol of earthly authority, suggesting spiritual legitimacy of worldly power. Consider, too, the shield with the eagle—an ancient symbol of empires, from Rome to modern nation-states. It evokes the archetype of the all-conquering, vigilant ruler. The card pulsates with a fiery, almost aggressive energy, reflecting how power can be both a constructive and destructive force, engaging our subconscious fears and aspirations. It's a potent reminder that symbols are never static; they continually evolve, reflecting the shifting sands of human culture and psychology.