Two of Cups in the Rider Waite Tarot

In the two of cups of the Rider Waite tarot, a male and female figure stand holding two cups, facing each other. They seem to be in some kind of ceremony or agreement, as their cups are tipped towards each other. Above them, a lion headed, winding snake watches over them - known as the caduceus. The caduceus is composed of intertwining snakes, representing harmony and respect, blessing the union that it presides upon.

Two of Cups Tarot Card Meaning & Symbolism

Whether in love, business, ideas, groups or any other kind of partnership, the two of cups represents a successful relationship. Here, the ego and self interest are made secondary to mutual benefits that this union can bring. When it comes to love, it is one of the most positive indications of it in the deck, being very similar to the lovers in its expression of true harmony.

Simplifying the Two of Cups Tarot Card

Though the two of cups is usually focused on love, the use of hands in this illustration, as well as others, allow me to be a bit more abstract in what this card can mean. Both the cups and the hands are poised to interact in symmetric ways. The hands are gently touching each other - I was in particular drawing from the iconic painting, “The Creation of Adam” by Michelangelo, but different - in the sense that you can imagine those hands touching like this illustration moments after what is shown in Creation of Adam.

The two cups, are turned towards each other, so that their contents are intermingling. Everything within this card joins at the center. In the nexus, you get the mix of 2 cups, and two hands, a double pairing, a pair of a pair.

The Two of Cups in the Luminous Spirit Tarot Deck

The Luminous Spirit Tarot Deck is the second deck of my creation, after the Golden Thread Tarot. I've been posting bits and pieces of the artwork on Instagram, but I'm going to start logging my progress here with every piece of work that I do. Please follow along with me here on Labyrinthos Academy.