We immediately see some resemblance to the Queen of Wands card. The throne has no top, the sign of infinite possibilities. We also see the lion on the throne, a connection with the astrological sign of Leo. This person is dominant but a man of few words. He is not very inventive, nor a wellspring of new ideas as one might expect from the King of Wands, but he is excellent at putting ideas to work. As a masculine figure in the Wands suit, he has a high level of controlled passion, enthusiasm and generosity. He is willing to assist whenever possible, in the most professional way. The salamander on the floor is just another sign of his purely fiery nature, further stressing his courage and resolve. Among the Kings of all the suits, he is the greatest leader and friend of the common man.
On the card
The King sits on a throne, holding a tall, budding wand in his right hand. He leans slightly forward, as if about to rise or to speak, giving the impression of a ruler who is always ready for action rather than one who sits back comfortably.
His crown is shaped like tongues of flame, and his robe and cloak are richly coloured. His throne and robes are decorated with lions and with salamanders, the lizards of fire, some of them shown biting their own tails in a circle, an ancient symbol of eternity and completeness. On the ground beside the throne sits a small living salamander, another sign of the fire element.
The background is plain, with an open sky behind the throne, which keeps all attention on the King himself.
The image is one of vision and leadership. This King has the energy of the whole Wands suit, but it is now mature and directed. His forward-leaning pose suggests initiative, and the flowering wand shows that his authority is creative and alive. He represents a natural leader who inspires others and turns ideas into reality through will and experience.
Upright
Traditional, authority figure, financial gain, devoted, honest and trustworthy, paternal, mediation, professional, conscientious.
Reversed
Autocratic, dogmatic, opposing, intolerant, prejudiced.