I14 Virgo Beryl Cook

The composition presents a figure mounted on a zebra within a celestial setting. The background is dominated by a deep blue expanse, punctuated with swirling cloud formations rendered in lighter shades of blue and white, suggesting a cosmic or dreamlike atmosphere. A decorative border frames the scene, adding a sense of formality and containment to the otherwise fantastical imagery.
The central figure is nude, possessing a fleshy physique and voluminous, flowing white hair that cascades down their shoulders and back. They hold aloft a banner emblazoned with a word in bold lettering. The posture suggests both authority and triumph; the figure appears to be actively engaged in riding the zebra forward.
The zebra itself is depicted with meticulous attention to its characteristic stripes, which are sharply contrasted against the lighter background. Its anatomy seems somewhat stylized, though it retains recognizable equine features. It conveys a sense of controlled power as it moves through the cloudy space.
Several subtexts emerge from this unusual pairing. The nude figure, combined with the banners inscription, implies a symbolic representation of an ideal or principle being championed. The zebra, often associated with duality and balance due to its contrasting stripes, might represent these qualities in relation to the figure’s proclaimed virtue. The celestial backdrop reinforces the notion that the scene is not literal but rather allegorical, suggesting a journey or ascension towards a higher state of understanding.
The overall effect is one of playful surrealism, blending elements of mythology, astrology, and personal symbolism into a visually arresting image. It invites contemplation on themes of identity, aspiration, and the pursuit of ideals within a broader cosmic context.