The Empress sits on the throne of Earth.  The crown of twelve stars represent the zodiac.  In her hand is a solar scepter revealing the sun's eternal path through the signs.  At her feet is the Venusian shield showing that emotion needs to be protected for it is a fragile thing.  The forest around her reveals the natural world and the five senses.  She is pregnant and carries the seed of life which is revealed by the pomegranates on her gown.