The Lovers card features what the LWB calls the “Cupids of China,” or more specifically, Hé Hé Er Xiān (和合二仙), the Immortals of Harmony and Union. Fun fact: the Immortals of Harmony and Union were historically depicted as two effeminate monks (as in both male) who lived together in seclusion up in the mountains, and they found such joy and happiness with each other that it became their divine powers that they could bless people with. Over the centuries, the depiction evolved with societal norms, and they were changed to a male and female pairing. Sigh.  With these types of ultra-specific themed decks, I acquire them to collect them. So I don’t get bent out of shape when the artwork and classical tarot card meanings don’t line up. Like featuring Yama (Yán Wáng, 閻王), king of the underworld in Buddhist eschatology on the Death card. [Actually, a strong case can be argued that it makes sense, and a strong case can be argued that it doesn’t.] |
