Queen Atop the Depths
Details and Artist’s Notes
Throne Room:
Throne
These large and domineering figures act as a metaphor for Capricorn. They’re supporting the roof of the structure, keeping the whole situation, and the queen, safely above the water
The throne represents Capricorn’s lofty goals; while not always seeking this kind of power, Capricorn often finds themselves the sole authority in a many areas of their lives. The throne being placed in a body of water represents the Sea-Goat, suitable for both mountain tops and long ocean swims
The Queen
She sits on the throne, almost perched, ready to receive compliment, complaint or worship. One hand touches her attender, while the other grasps her garnet-topped cane. This shows her willingness to work with or even assist others, while simultaneously securing her own fortune, power, and glory.
The Attenders
These women seem to be servants of the queen, if not simply attenders or friends, though her position above them evokes the former, rather than the latter
Like the queen, they are also poised for the scene, though unlike their Lady, their eyes are closed and their attention diverted elsewhere. This solidifies their roles as helpmates to the focus of the piece, rather than her friends or sisters
Skin tone:
Using 19th Century southern Louisiana as an example, the skin tones of these women write a story steeped in social stratification and privilege, both things Capricorn must tackle
The darker skinned women, in most cultures of the time, would be resigned to servants or dressers, even for other Black women. These social rules are very based in Saturnian authority, and thus are very Capricorn.
Garnet:
As mentioned before, the queen and her attendants are dripping in garnets and there’s even garnet growing from the ground.
This is the birthstone of January and a gemstone commonly associated with Capricorn
