Astrology in art

Mercury presenting thunderbolts to Jupiter by Giovanni Battista Langetti (Genoa 1635 - 1676 Venice)

What I find particularly striking about this piece is its humanized portrayal of planetary energies. While I lack expertise in art history to delve into the artist's intentions or the historical context of the piece, I can certainly share my personal fascination with the image. Over the past several years, I have immersed myself in the study of Vedic astrology. I've been learning about what each planet represents within our collective consciousness. Vedic Astrology has its roots in ancient Greek and Hellenistic thought, and those common ideas are exemplified here.

In my my astrological chart, Jupiter and Mercury are conjunct in the 6th house which governs work, health, and healing. This painting vividly captures the dynamics present in this specific portion of my birth chart. Mercury, associated with learning and communication is the planetary messenger here. He is depicted conveying information via thunderbolts to Jupiter. Jupiter - symbolizing growth, wealth, and opportunities, appears contemplative on how to make use of the incoming knowledge. In my personal life, this planetary combination has its advantages. Jupiter expands where ever it is in the natal chart. In my chart it rules the 7th house of relationships and partners as well as my 10th house of career. Then it goes to the 6th house of everyday work, health and healing. Mercury is my chart ruler. Mercury is about comprehension of information and communication.

How are Mercury and Jupiter situated in your chart? What houses do they inhabit? How do their energies work together for you in everyday life? This is something you can understand in depth with a Vedic astrology consultation.

Reflecting on astrology and planetary influences is intriguing, but encountering a piece of art like this ignites my imagination, evoking a sense of wonder and delight. It's truly fascinating to appreciate how people in the 15th century possessed knowledge about the planets and their symbolic energies.