A man of great authority and earthly power, sitting firmly but somewhat lethargically on a bulky throne engraved with bulls' heads: a clear indication of the earth element. All around him are symbols of fertility and abundance. One of his feet reveals that beneath his robes he wears armour. This is a man who is generous, but at the same time his authority is not to be questioned or taken lightly. As generous as he is, he is equally stubborn, and he is not quick to change his opinion, no matter what evidence he is presented with. He is a good mentor and diplomat, the embodiment of stability, financial gain, perseverance and everything that is characteristic of the Pentacles suit. He is not an intuitive or original person; he knows that conservative ways are the ones tested by time and that the old rules have passed the test countless times. He has the diligence, patience and dexterity to be flawless in the implementation of laws and regulations. If you respect this person and show it to him, you can expect help, but if you are disrespectful, you might get yourself into trouble.
On the card
The King sits on a heavy throne in a garden overflowing with grapevines and flowers. His long robe is covered with a pattern of grapes and vine leaves, so that he almost seems to blend into the abundant growth around him. In his right hand he holds a sceptre, and in his left a large pentacle rests on his knee.
The throne is carved with the heads of bulls, the animal of Taurus, an earth sign, and a symbol of strength, steadiness and fertility. Behind the garden wall rise the towers and buildings of a castle or town, the domain he has built and governs.
One of his feet, showing from beneath the robe, is clad in armour. Under the comfort and wealth there is still strength and the readiness to defend what he has.
The King's posture is relaxed and secure. He has nothing left to prove; his success is visible all around him. The card describes material mastery, prosperity and reliable leadership: a figure who has turned hard work into lasting wealth and who uses it to protect and provide, steady and generous but firmly rooted in practical reality.
Upright
Acquiring, industrious, reliable and responsible, good diplomat, advancement, victory over opponents, a dependable father figure.
Reversed
Strong opponents, vice, grasping, stubborn, egomaniac, insecure.