Witchy Weeds #Mars - Original

Mixed Media on Paper, 42 x 60 cm
 
This artwork is one of the images from the series called: “Witchy Weeds”, dedicated to the astrological planets of the Solar System. Each planet is represented through the plant that it patronises, as well as the numerous symbols corresponding to it.
 
This piece of the collection portrays the planet Mars that is distinguished by its militancy and is responsible for physical and spiritual strength, will, courage, assertiveness, as well as for the instinct of self-preservation. Mars rules such star signs as Aries and Scorpio. 
On the ribbon wrapped around the thistle, flaunts Latin inscription "Nemo me Impune Lacessit", which translates as: "No one provokes me with impunity."  The motto of the Ancient, Noble Order of the Thistle, the Scottish chivalrous order.
According to legend, the "guardian thistle" played a vital part in Alexander III, King of Scots' defense of the ancient realm of Scotland against a night-time raiding party of Norwegian Vikings, prior to the Battle of Largs: one or more raiders let out a yell of pain when stepping on a prickly thistle, thus alerting the Scots.
The painting contains many additional magical symbols that reveal and enhance the natural energy of the planet Mars.