Antique Zodiac Calligraphy – Stretched Canvas

From an age where the night sky held the key to understanding time, destiny, and the desires of the gods, these meticulously crafted antique engravings depicted the twelve signs of the zodiac, each one a unique fusion of art and astronomy. Each constellation engraving was a visual feast, enhanced with hand colouring that brings the celestial figures to life. Delicately painted strokes highlight the figures which the stars created. The names of the star signs are written in elegant calligraphic flourishes.

The constellations were presented with an almost narrative quality, telling the tales of heroes, heroines and gods that had been passed down through generations:

Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, symbolized new beginnings and the renewal of life. Represented by the Ram, Aries was associated with Mars, the god of war, reflecting qualities of courage, energy, and assertiveness. This sign heralded the start of spring, a time of growth and rejuvenation.

Taurus, depicted as the Bull, was linked to Venus, goddess of love and beauty. Symbolizing strength, stability, and fertility, Taurus was a sign of prosperity and sensual pleasure, reflecting the bounty of the earth during the late spring.

Gemini, the Twins, represented strength of communication. Associated with Mercury, the messenger god, Gemini symbolized the interconnection of opposites and the exchange of ideas. This sign was seen as a time of learning and adaptability.

Cancer, the Crab, was governed by the Moon and represented emotions, intuition, and the nurturing aspects of life. This sign, marking the start of summer, was associated with the home and familial bonds.

Leo, the Lion, ruled by the Sun, symbolized leadership, creativity, and generosity. As the height of summer, Leo was a time of warmth, radiance, and celebration, embodying the regal and commanding presence of the king of the wild.

Virgo, the Maiden, was linked to Mercury and represented purity, diligence, and analytical thinking. Marking the end of the harvest season, Virgo was a symbol of service and attention to detail.

Libra, represented by the Scales, was associated with Venus and symbolized balance, justice, and partnership. This sign heralded the autumn equinox, a time of equilibrium between light and dark.

Scorpio, the Scorpion, was governed by Mars and Pluto, symbolizing transformation, passion, and power. Known for its intensity and depth, Scorpio marked a period of introspection and regeneration in late autumn.

Sagittarius, the Archer, represented exploration, philosophy, and freedom. Linked to Jupiter, the king of the gods, Sagittarius symbolized the pursuit of knowledge and the expansion of horizons as the year approached winter.

Capricorn, the Goat, governed by Saturn, symbolized discipline, responsibility, and ambition. As the sign of the winter solstice, Capricorn represented the climb towards achievement and mastery through perseverance.

Aquarius, the Water Bearer, was associated with Uranus and Saturn and symbolized innovation, humanitarianism, and intellectual independence. This sign, marking the end of winter, was a time of vision and progress.

Pisces, the Fish, ruled by Neptune and Jupiter, symbolized compassion, spirituality, and intuition. As the last sign of the zodiac, Pisces represented the completion of a cycle and the transcendence of the physical realm.

These antique engravings, with their beautiful elaborate designs and rich symbolism, continue to captivate and inspire – reminding us of the timeless connection between humanity and the cosmos. They are cherished not only for their artistic beauty but also for their historical and cultural significance. They are windows into a time when the stars were a source of wonder and guidance, and the art of engraving was a revered craft. Collectors and enthusiasts treasure these prints as representations of the zodiac and as timeless pieces of art that capture the elegance and mystery of the night sky.

Canvas Prints
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These superior canvas wall art prints are of gorgeous quality and are extremely popular. Available in a range of sizes, each one is carefully custom made and hand finished.

38mm depth. Classic stretched premium, heavy weight cotton art canvas, expertly stretched onto specially profiled knotless pine stretchers. This canvas surface works brilliantly with colour images and also black and white, giving you sumptuous depth, vibrancy and detail.

Each corner fold is smooth and tight. The stretcher frame is milled with a curved profile which … See More

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