Lenormand Work Book by Pepi Valderrama, work notes

Today's card: The Letter

So... I will get personal communication today. Nice!

So - let's work on the list of words.
This card is The Letter, number 27 in the Lenormand deck. There shouldn't be anything but the letter in the picture. So... what is "letter"... letter, message, postcard, posted communication, thinking about you, writing on paper, letters... connection... private message... at that time... has been replaced with telephone, messaging, email... replaced in its time clay tablets and quipo strings... now, in this image, there's a dove carrying the letter in its beak... the room has an ink bottle and quill and what's that called, the blotting tool thingy. And an old fashioned secretary desk. It's a very old-fashioned room. And I would say the writer is a leftie. :-D
The directions and colors in the picture also has meaning. The bird is central, in movement, very much alive, but flying to left, into past... The chair is empty. The letter writer is absent. Makes me think of messages from the past as well as messages to the past. Time travel? Memories?
Perhaps this person doesn't want to be with other people. E is old-fashioned, and lets birds transport e's letters...

Now, 27 is 3x3x3, and numerologically its value is 9. 3 cubed is very magical, and 9 is about The World.

"Angel Number 27 is a message from your angels that new information or news of a positive nature is on its’ way, so listen to your intuition and heed its guidance for your highest good."
Angel Number 27; Joanne Sacred Scribes

 The same site also states that repeating number 3 means there's an "Ascended Master" near you.

"The numerology number 27 is about philanthropy and compassion in a cooperative atmosphere."
Number 27 meaning

Now, the playing card. Lenormand has playing cards depicted on them (usually) and Letter is 7 of spades.

Card of Removal

This card represents the uncovering of a truth, a removal, or a loss of some kind. There may be a disruption among friends, quarrels with others, loss of a friendship, or an ending to a relationship. Avoid arguments with friends for now.

The seven of spades indicates a lack of opportunism and announces the dangers linked to immobility, and relates to the short-term sorrows that put the consultant in an unstable situation.
Latin Cards: Seven of Spades

Generally the 7 of Spades represents a setback or a reversal of fortune, and in relationship readings it invariably shows a cooling off of affections.
7 of Spades: Art of Cartomancy

Oh... doesn't sound like that picture at all!

In Russian Gypsy Fortune Telling Cards Letter means "news from the far" and it has 4 meanings, depending on how it stands:
Upright, Position 1 Meaning Happiness will come to you from afar.
Position 2 Meaning Interesting, unexpected news.
Position 3 Meaning you will hear long-awaited words.
Reversed; Position 4 Meaning Sad news.

In Katina's Deste cards the meaning of Letter is "News. A message coming from a distance. The cards around will tell what kind of message it is, positive or negative.
It can also mean that someone or something you have been waiting for, is coming to you - reversed it means that he/she/it is NOT coming"

Etteilla, then?

"Enemy successful."
"Dark girl; a good card; it promises a country life after a competence has been secured.
Reversed
Good advice, probably neglected."
"Good news. A letter from a distance. Bad news. An invitation."
"Hope, Confidence, Desire, Attempt, Wish
Reversed
Wise Advice, Good Counsel, Wisdom, Prudence, Circumspection.""Everyday worries, or a resolve taken
Reversed
silly stratagems in love-making."
"by means of a lost letter a secret will be revealed, and this will cause much sorrow; an officer will restore the letter, and all will end well."

Lenormand letter 

General Feeling: Neutral

Planet: Mercury

Zodiac: Gemini

Keywords: letter, message, news, communication, expression, written communication, documents

long distance communication; letters, email, text messages, telephone conversations, correspondence, penpals
any communication; from everyday conversations to conferences, meetings, negotiations; verbal and non-verbal, from facial expressions and gestures to messages in clothing and art - all expressions
information, information flow, social media, media, newspapers, magazines, internet
any written papers, papers with writing, from diplomas to postit notes, faxes, invoices, bills, files, newsletters, flyers, pamphlets, zines...

as a person:
- a writer
- good communicator, orator
- "letter carrier", someone who delivers the message, what ever kind of message it is, so if it's a facial expression, it's the person twisting her face :-D - any person you communicate with

General Description: The Lenormand Letter is the card of written communication. It can come in any form – email, letter, fax, newspaper… It can also indicate business documents (such as an invoice or memo), legal documents (such as a will, court order, or parking ticket), or school documents (e.g., report cards and diplomas.)
documentation or paperwork of any kind. It can mean things such as diplomas, certificates, resumes, invoices and permits, for example.
The letter card represents news and messages. It's all forms of written communications. It can come in the form of a note, a document, email, text messages and letters.
The letter also involves written documents, such as licenses, diplomas, certificates, and permits. It includes postcards, flyers, junk mail and brochures.
All forms of paperwork. Anything that can be written.

Anna K. about the Letter

Career:
information is coming; invoices, memos, resumes, any business related paperwork
You should receive some form of appreciation at work, such as an award.

Occupation: Anything involving the media and communication – journalist, PR expert, blogger, writer, reporters, postal worker

Health: prescriptions, test results, referrals

The Body: Hands and fingers

Love: written correspondence with a loved one. A love letter, online courting, Valentine You should receive a love letter.

Physical Description/Qualities: Communicative, nice hands, educated, proud

Timing: Something that happens quickly; the month of June; could mean 27th day of the month

Questions to Ask with The Letter

    What do I need to communicate?
    Who do I need to reach out to?
    What kind of documentation do I need?
    What am I holding inside?
    What do I need to write or email?
    Write your feelings and thouhgts on paper to release them
    What message are you trying to convey?
    Are all of your documents in order?
    Do you need to renew/get a license or permit? Any official papers?

That awful Death card!

Noland Comics by Shea Thomas

DIY collection oracle in action

DIY Collection Oracle and Why I Divine by La Reine de l'Air 

 

 

 Grab four items nearby

Foundation: medicine bottle seal
Reaching for: card of pain killers
Let go of: hair tie, black
Open up to: empty chocolate foil

First impressions - very monotone in color, but somehow rich, luxurious - everything is silver with a touch of black and white. Very classy. :-D

What is the medicine bottle seal about - it keeps the medicine fresh and usable, waiting for me to open the bottle and use the medicine.
Why does it exist? - as said, to keep the medicine good.
How does it make me feel? Icky. Unhappy. I don't want to have it in my life. I don't want to be sick. I don't want to need medication. I don't want to know what it is. I don't want to associate to my sickness. I look at it sideways like a dog looks at a full bathtub. Nah, not going to, don't want to. NONONONOWWWOUUuu!
What is its tone? It's not cold... it's kind of soft and kind and gentle.A little perky, even. A bit happy little thing, with all the curves and smooth, white plastic.
What does it symbolize? Ill health. But also healing, help, care.
Imagery: It looks like a cap... and it makes me think of boats. Ships, yachts...

What is the card of pain killers about - about same thing - ready measured pain killer readily available, waiting for use in their blister card.
Why does it exist? - (Interesting, different answer) because I'm often in pain and need pain killers readily available
How does it make me feel? About the same way the medicine bottle seal.
What is its tone? No-nonsense. Very nurse like. Stiff, rigid, straight, Mary Poppins. 
What does it symbolize? Pain. But also relief.
Imagery: there's only two tablets left and they are on the edge of the card, they look like eyes... white irisless eyes... and all the popped blisters look like mouths screaming and twisting in... anger. It looks angry.

What is the hair tie about - keeping my hair tied up, tidy and out of my face
Why does it exist? I like keeping my hair tied up
How does it make me feel? Er... nothing much. Necessary things. Black is such a useful color. Goes with everything.
Tone? Another no-nonsense item, but this time almost invisible. Slightly worn out. Slightly tired. Boring. Something, someone that has given up and doesn't want to even try any more. Resistance is futile. I can just as well got with it.
What does it symbolize? rules, proper world order, order, tidiness, prim and proper, just so.
Imagery - a black cirlce... not perfectly round, imperfectly elliptical, oval, baroque circle. It looks like an open hole, sore, black hole... a portal... to a reality I don't want to know anything about.

What is the chocolate foil about - keeping the chocolate fresh and clean while waiting to be used, eaten
Why does it exist? I like chocolate
How does it make me feel? A bit ashamed...
Tone: Kind of happy, any way. It's good chocolate. It's a bit of luxury. I'm glad I don't only have proper, prim and health related things closeby, but such frivolous luxury like chocolate :-D
What does it symbolize? Indulgence, pleasure, pampering oneself, allowing, enjoying life
Imagery: a metal bird. Like a seagull floating on water. Of metal. Robotic seagull. It's kind of smiling. Reminds me a bit of crocodiles.

So
Foundation, open the seal to medicine bottle, let the medicine come out and do what it is meant to do - heal me
Reaching for : pain killers - the existing help to end the pain
Let go of: limitation, the prim and proper, the expectations, the boring, monotone tidiness and no-nonsensicality
Open up to indulgence, luxury, pleasure, shameful things - pamper yourself.

Junk Oracle by Frances

Go read the original post
This is a abridged version. She just writes it so well!
P.S. This kind of oracle has many names, I like to call it a magpie oracle, even though I think Carrie Paris owns that name... So, to be safe, you call it a junk oracle or collection oracle or sortilege bag or what ever, I risk getting sued and call it magpie oracle. :-)

"I dove into casting through pessomancy... ...I would just grab a handful of stones into my cupped hands, think of my question and drop them on a dark cloth and read the pattern they made"

"I realized I didn't need to limit the medium, I could literally grab a handful of anything and read it. I read the image that emerges, the picture and the flow of the items so what does it matter if it is a stone or a candy heart?"

"When I first tried my hand at Junkomancy I looked around my home in search of …...  what? My only criteria was that it be smaller than a quarter. I like shiny, colorful, pretty things but I didn't limit my search, I collected whatever I felt was small enough to be mixed into a bag."

(doll items are perfect for junkomancy)

"There are many ways you can approach Junkomancy. You may pick a set number of items and assign finite meanings to them or you may just grab a bunch of junk, drop them on a cloth and leave it up to your mind to map out. Some people create a unique casting cloth with specific patterns and they pay close attention to where an item lands. The pattern may be an astrological wheel or the image of the Qabalistic tree of life or a map of chakras or it may be as personal as a wish or dream board. They read the spot on the cloth as well as the item and then the combination of the two."

"...clear your mind, breathe, still your thoughts, think lightly on the question or subject, shake the items up in your cupped hands and drop them on a blank cloth. What do you see? With Junkomancy I still read the pattern the throw makes but I also incorporate meanings I associate with different objects, with where they have fallen on my cloth, how they interact with each other, with colors, with how the light hits an object and anything else that hits my eye."

"It  is also important to remember that while this is what I may associate with a dragonfly on it's own that may change when I see it in a throw with other items. It may take on a more sinister meaning or  something all together different. I might just focus on the blue color of the bead rather than the imagined dragonfly. Keep your mind open. Sortilege is deeply personal. It is what you see, associate and feel."

"DIY collection oracle and why I divine" by La Reine de l'Air

Floromancy

Floriography or Anthomancy

Divination by flowers

!) Daisy oracle

2) In Victorian England, two flowers that had not yet blossomed, would be paired, and the initials of certain lovers' names would be placed on the stems. After placing the flowers in a secret place for 10 days, the diviner would then observe certain portents, such as, if any flower twined the other, it would indicate that the man and the woman whose initials were used were going to be married.

3) The first flower of spring is an oracle about the spring

- monday - good fortune
- tuesday - your greatest efforts will be rewarded
- wednesday - a marriage is coming
- thursday - be alert, be cautious, there are problems
- friday - riches and wealth
- saturday - misfortune
- sunday - exceptional luck for weeks to come

- wild flower - someone with the same initial as the flower found will be attracted to you

4) Flower oracle, the secret language of flowers

5) Pansy oracle

You need to think about your question, find a pansy and take a petal off it. Look at the stronger lines on the petal.

4 lines; hope
Center line branches out to 5; hope founded in fear
7 lines; consistent love
8 lines; fickleness (either in you or someone around you)
9; changing heart
11; disappointment in love
lines bent to the right; prosperity
lines bent to the left ; trouble ahead

6) Dandelion oracle

7) Gender reveal

If a pregnant woman went into the garden, closed her eyes and spun around, and randomly picked a flower, the color tells the gender of the child.
Light, soft, pastel colors; a girl
Strong, vibrant, dark colors; a boy

8) Pick three carnations, and put in your hair so that they are above each other. Now you see which one withers first.
If the top one withers first, the end of your life will be harder
If the middle one withers first, your early life will be harder
If the bottom one withers first, your whole life will be hard


http://wiccanmoonsong.blogspot.se/2012/10/flower-divination.html
http://druidsegg.reformed-druids.org/newsimbolc09-22.htm

The Game of Hope

“Detleff Hoffman has shown that their prototype can be clearly traced back to a lovely little pack of fancy cards called “Das Spiel der Hoffnung” (The Game of Hope), published around 1800 by G.P.J. Bieling in Nuremberg.”
– A Wicked Pack of Cards: The Origins of the Occult Tarot (1996),
Ronald Decker, Thierry Deplaulis & Michael Dummett

 

Here is a link to the game rules.

Now, there's thios... er... person, who is totally giddy about that this is not a game board but a deck of cards, and she thinks that means "something"...
My Dear Little Friend... what is a deck of playing cards? Do you noticed the tarot cards on one corner and ordinary playing cards in the other? This is a 18th century "3-in-1 travel game". The use as an oracle was given as a joke-y suggestion in the original Little White Book. It is the people using Lenormand decks and creating, recreating and renewing them that made Lenormand into what it is. It is YOU who give it its magic by your belief.

Because this isn't really that much different from something like "The New Game of Human Life"

A cute bachelor with hsi cat from "The New Game of Human Life" :-D

Here's some more pictures from early board games

The Baron's New and Fun Game

I remember being a member of a tarot group... we were to learn a card every week, the purpose of the group was to discuss about the cards.
I remember my enthusiasm... I wrote long posts, shared my insight, enthusiasm, associations, read everything everyone else posted, responded, engaged people... 

and then someone misunderstood something I said, and the moderator suspended me.

 

Without even asking my side of the story.

 

And she didn't even inform me about it.

I found out about it only after I, confused because I couldn't get in to the group, asked her what had happened.

She did apologize. With the "but..." Ha. Too little, too late.The damage was done.

I realized that I was practically the only one engaging people, I was the only one with anything new to say, no-one ever responded to my posts or my questions. Being part of the group didn't give ME anything. So I left.

Frankly, I don't care what happened with them after I left, but I'm 100% certain of that they were worse off, and I wasn't missing anything.

At least nothing they could have given me.

But, the enthusiasm is still there.
Divination methods, all of them, are so amazing, rich, beautiful... it all seems so simple on the surface, but there are layers after layers after layers, intricate, interwoven... Like Lenormand.
It is so satisfying!

Siberian Magic Square

Focus on your question. Close your eyes, ask your question three times and put your finger on the square. The number most under your finger will tell your answer.
It is better if you print out the square and use a pin to pin your answer ;-)

1 - It will be difficult, but trust in God.
2 - There will be profit, but not without sweat and tears.
3 - You've already buried your talent, save the rest.
4 - Hope will not deceive you, live honestly.
5 - Soon you will learn joy, but be careful.
6 - Drive evil thoughts away from yourself, evil is punishable. More positive!
7 - Not everyone lives in wealth, everything changes in the world: the poor become rich, and vice versa.
8 - Dare, do not be afraid: he who seeks finds.
9 - Don't trust in promises, they are lying. Trust yourself and everything will be fine!
10 - Perhaps someone whom you believed in, will not live up to expectations
11 - The situation you are thinking about will soon change to the worse
12 - Avoid the company of bad people.
13 - Do not waste money and time: what you have lost is gone forever.
14 - Your desire will be fulfilled, but do not think that it is so easy and soon. Be patient.
15 - The path of your life is prosperous.
16 - Do good works, help your neighbors, drive evil thoughts.
17 - Someone sheds blood, someone tears.
18 - Expect the change of your life for happiness, but if you listen to a woman's advice, you will lose.
19 - Do good, help someone today and for your virtue your life will be long and happy
20 - You will have many enemies, but you will conquer them all with God.
21 - What you have in mind, it will come true.
22 - The storm is going to be great: be clever about it and it will bypass you.
23 - Spare yourself from ugly acts and thoughts. Help your neighbor and your good will come back to you a hundredfold.
24 - Do not believe that everyone around you will be decent people.
25 - Do you have a heart and soul? Suffer, it will not last long, there will come a relief.
26 - Soon great joy will visit you.
27 - Years pass, live right.
28 - In a short time you will live in peace and joy.
29 - Our life, like the sea, is stormy. The one who left you, will calm the seas.
30 - What you ask and wish, you will soon get, but keep your mouth shut.
31 - Friends of your friends are not necessarily your friends
32 - You are hot-blooded and touchy, but your heart is kind. You will have bright days too.
33 - You are too kind and believe those who deceive you
34 - Tears flow through the gold
35 - Don't fret; what you dreamed about will not come true, whom you think about will not come back. Accept both joy and adversity.
36 - Throw the fool out of your head, live the truth.
37 - You can lie to people but never to God
38 - You hear news
39 - Don't give in to your evil thoughts.
40 - Tame your temper.
41 - If you eat one, you will eat another and then you will be eaten
42 - Your wish will soon come true
43 - Be careful
44 - Don't always listen to people's advice
45 - Look around: someone is much worse than you, and God pities you.
46 - ​​Do not condemn or pass false rumors.
47 - The time will come, and you will get what you aspire to.
48 - You used to love skating and carriage and sleigh rides (Don't ask me what this means - this is an oracle from the 19th century, perhaps it means that you will enjoy having fun outside with your loved one again.)
49 - You'll guard yourself in town but will get burned at home
50 -  All your sorrows will be scattered.
51 - Remember your health. Take care of yourself.
52 - Your evil is under the threshold. (Old folklore; if you are the victim of a spell, you put a pin under the threshold to keep the evil there. So, if you believe there is bad luck following you, push a pin or needle under a threshold and say "my evil is under the threshold" and that should take care of it.)
53. Don't collect money. Help your neighbors with money and it will come back hundred times.
54 - You will love, but not be loved back
55 - Expect new things.
56 - Your fairytale will soon begin, but it will not end soon.
57 - Your hopes are doubtful.
58 - Wait for separation.
59 - Do not think that anything can save you from adversity
60 - Be careful.
61 - Give up hope. Itself is not bad.
62 - Everything will be all right.
63 - Look both ways.
64 - Do not go and do not drive at night without work. Be careful.
65 - Not everyone thinks well of you. Throw such people out of your life.
66 - You're off the road. But you will find the strength to establish everything.
67 - Quarrel over trifles - make up.
68 - Be afraid to blame the innocent.
69 - Whom's heart loves, he will destroy you.
70 - Do not worry, everything will be okay.
71 - You'll pour from empty to empty.
72 - You will grow thin a little."
73 - If you do not recognize the ford, do not poke yourself into the water.
74- There is also a kind heart for you.
75 - You should not worry, you should torment your heart in vain.
76 - Your trust is failing.
77 - Do not open your mouth to someone else's mouth. Live your own life.
78 - Disappointed.
79 - Beauty is fleeting
80 - They love you.
81- Sit by the sea, wait for the weather. Rest.
82 - The last year was not easy, but firmly accept all the trials, and life will be fine.
83 - Sometimes, from foreign people, expect more good than from relatives.
84 - Steadily accept all the hardships of life, if you want everything to go well.
85 - The table will be rich, the bed is soft, but it will save you from problems and difficulties.
86 - At work, you have an enemy.
87 - Wait for the gift.
88 - Be careful.
89 - Not everything is easy in the family. But we must make efforts to improve the situation.
90 - Dress up, get ready and rest.
91 - You will live a very long time.
92 - Wins for you (but money? ..).
93 - Mother said, warned, the child behaved in her own way-who is to blame for this?
94 - You will also have happiness.
95 - The patient will get well, but the healthy one will get sick. Take care of yourself and your health.
96 - One will save and another will have to be busted.
97 - Sorrow does not come alone. But everything will be fine.
98 - You'll complain about your health, but you will live a long time.
99 - You will find solace in your loved ones.
100 - To live in truth and God will reward you.

The Little Fortune Teller from American Civil War Era

Moles, from Lilly's Book of Knowledge

From The Lilly Book of Knowledge
Written by Erra Pater, a Jewish Doctor in Astronomy and Physic,
Made English by W. Lilly, Student in Physic and Astrology.
(William Lilly lived on the 17th century, and his Book of Knowledge was reprinted - and edited, also.)

This was in the book published 1796 in Worcester

A MOLE on the forehead of a man or woman, denotes they will grow rich, and attain to great possessions, being beloved of their friends and neighbours.

A mole on the eyebrow shews a man to be incontinent, and given to the love of women; but if it be a woman, it signifies a good husband.

He or she that has a mole on the nose, signifies they love their pleasure more than any thing else.

A mole on the chin, shews the party shall never stand in need of his kin, but shall get money and grow very rich.

A mole on the neck, denotes him honorable and prudent in all his actions; but if a woman, it shews her a weak judgment, and apt to believe the worst of her husband.

A mole on a man's shoulder signifies adversity, and threatens him with an unhappy end; but a woman having a mole in the same place, shews she shall abound in honor and riches.

A man or woman having a mole on the wrist or hand denotes increase of children, but affliction in old age.

A man or woman having a mole near the heart up∣on the breast, shews them irregular, wicked, and malicious.

A mole on the belly shews the person shall be addicted to gluttony and lasciviousness.

A mole on the knee shews a man shall be fortunate in marrying, and that his wife shall be beautiful, virtuous, and very wealthy; a woman having one in the same place shews she shall be virtuous, happy, and fruitful in children.

A mole on the foot shews a man shall get riches and be happy in his children; if a woman hath the same it also betokens her the same happiness.

This was in the New York 1806 version
This was taken from The Little Gipsy Girl; OR, Universal Fortune Teller. printed in London 1799

III. Of the signification of Moles in any Part of the Body.

IF either Man or Woman shall have a Mole on the Place right against the Heart, it doth denote them undoubtedly to be wicked.

If a mole be seen on a man or woman's belly it doth demonstrate he or she shall be a great feeder or glutton.

If either man or woman shall have a mole on the bottom of the belly, it doth argue much debility, and to be often sick.

If a man shall have a mole on the knee, he shall then certainly obtain a comely and wealthy wife.

And if that woman shall have a mole on the right knee, signifieth her to be honest and virtuous; if on the left, then shall she enjoy many children.

If a man shall have a mole overthwart the nose, it doth denote that he shall wander hither and thither, through countries and cities.

A mole standing on a woman's nose doth portend that she shall travel on foot throguh sundry countries.

If a man hath a mole on the gullet or throat, it doth demonstrate that he shall become very rich.

If a woman hath a mole on the nether jaw, it doth indicate that she shall lead her life in sorrow and pain of body which shall hinder her from attaining and bearing of children: If a man shall have the form of moles on his tongue, it doth demonstrate that he shall marry with a rich and beautiful woman.

If either man or women shall have a mole on any part of the lip, it doth portend that he or she be a great feeder or glutton: and to be much beloved, and very amorous.

If a man shall have a mole on the chin, it doth argue that he shall be rich both in the substance of money and possessions.

Also a woman having a mole on the same place, it doth foretel that she shall come to the like wealth as the man, and that she hath besides the same, a like mole aloft or against the milt.

If a man shall have a mole in either of the ears, it doth argue that he shall be rich, and much reverenced and spoken of.

If a woman hath a mole in the like place, it doth denote the same good hap and fortune to her; and that besides she hath the like placed on the thigh or hams.

If either man or woman have a mole on the neck, it doth promise that they shall become very rich.

If a man shall have a mole in a manner behind the neck, it doth demonstrate that he shall be beheaded, except God (through earnest prayer) prevent the same.

If as well the man as the woman shall have a mole on the loins, it doth demonstrate a weak and poor kindred, and to be always needy.

If a man shall have a mole on the throat, it doth promise that he shall marry both with a beautiful and rich woman.

If a woman shall have a mole on the same place it doth signify that she shall also marry both with a wealthy, and very fair, or comely man.

If either in the man or woman's hand a mole appear, it doth denote prosperity, good luck, and enjoyment of children.

If either the man or woman shall have a mole on the breast, it doth threaten that he or she shall be much harmed by poverty.

A mole on the left side of the stomach, denotes a luxurious person.

A mole on the left shoulder, denotes trouble and affliction.

A mole on the left shoulder, near the arm, denotes the person given to quarrels, strife and hatred.

A mole in the middle of the stomach, denotes dangerous disease.

A mole on the right side of the forehead, promises riches and prosperity, and the like signifies a mole on the right temple.

A mole on the left corner of the eye, denotes the party subject to melancholy, and diseases that proceed thereform.

A mole on the left cheek, denotes poverty and affliction.

A mole on the lower part or tip of the right ear, threatens the party with drowning.

A mole near the bottom of the nostrils, predicts a man or woman fortunate or lucky.

A mole on the middle of the right breast, denotes the person ingenious, and given to industry.

A mole on the left side of the belly, denotes affliction and crosses.

A mole on the left buttock, threaten sickness and trouble.

A mole on hte right foot, denotes the party to be endowed with wisdom and eloquence.

A mole on the left foot, denotes rash actions whereby the party shall be endangered.

A mole on the huckle-bone, promises good fortune.

A mole on the groin, or the right side, denotes good fortune, and on the left, the contrary.

A mole on the eye-brow, signifies speedy marriage, and a good husband.

A mole on the left breast, upon the beating of the heart exactly in one place, denotes the parties, if of different sex, will come together in matrimony.

A mole on the left shoulder, denotes labor, travail and sorrow.

A mole on the right thigh, foretels riches, and advantage by marriage: on the privities it doth the like.

A mole on the right cheek, denotes a timely marriage, and such a one as shall be prosperous.

A mole on the right knee of a woman, denotes easy labor, and a loving husband.

A mole on the left buttock, denotes a pleasing person, and one very much delighted in the works of generation.

Moles on the arms and shoulders, if on the right side, portend wisdom and prudence. On the left, they signify proneness to debate and contention. But moles near the arm-holes and the regions of the breast, signify beauty, riches, benevolence and respect.

Moles on the thighs or loins of men or women, signs of want; especially being found on the left side of the body, or the left side of the thigh; let such take care of venereal misfortunes.

A mole on the upper part of the breast, on either side, especially the left, signifies a man liable to poverty.

A mole on the left side of the heart denotes wicked qualities; for persons thus marked, are rash, hasty, and head-strong in their actions.

A mole or moles on the belly of men or women denote them ravenous, and great eaters.

Moles either upon or about the knees, signify to a man riches by marriage; to a woman, if it be upon her right knee, it is a modest sign of honor, honesty and virtue; if upon the right knee it is a sign of being fruitful in children.

Moles on the ankles or feet, are held to signify modesty, and something of effeminacy in men, but courage in women.

Here's also Isidore of Seville's translation of Melampus' writing On Moles

 

From Moles and their meaning (1907)

Palmestry from Lilly's Book of Knowledge

From The Lilly Book of Knowledge,
Published in New York 1806

Written by Erra Pater, a Jewish Doctor in Astronomy and Physic,
Made English by W. Lilly, Student in Physic and Astrology.

 II. Of Palmestry, shewing the various Judgments drawn from the Hand.

I SHALL next say something of Palmestry, which is a judgment made of the conditions inclinations, and fortunes of men and women, from the various lines and characters which nature has imprint∣ed in the hand, which are almost as various as the hands that have them. And to render what I shall say more plain, I will in the first place present the scheme or figure of a hand, and explain the various lines therein.

By this figure the reader will see that one of the lines, and which indeed is reckoned the principal, is called the line of life; this line incloses the thumb, separating it from the hollow of the hand. The next to it, which is called the natural line, takes its beginning from the rising of the fore finger, near the line of life, and reach∣es to the table line, and generally makes a triangle, thus △. The table line, commonly called the line of fortune, begins under the little finger, and ends near the middle finger. The girdle of Venus, which in another line so called, begins near the joint of the little finger, and ends between the fore finger and the middle finger.

The line of death is that which plainly appears in a counter line to that of life, and by some is called the sister line, ending usually at the other end; for when the line of life is ending, death comes, and it can go no farther. There are also lines in the fleshy parts as in the ball of the thumb, which is called the mount of Venus; under each of the fingers are called mounts, which are each one governed by a several planet, and the hollow of the hand is called the plain of Mars. I now proceed to give judgment of these several lines. And in the first place take notice, that in Palmestry the left hand is chiefly to be regarded; because therein the lines are most visible, and have the strictest communication with the heart and brains. Now having promised these, in the next place observe the line of life, and if it be fair, extended to its full length, and not broken with an intermixture of cross lines, it shews long life and health; and it is the same if a double line of life appears, as there sometimes does. When the Stars appear in this line, it is a significator of great losses and calamities: if on it there be the figure of two O's, or a Y, it threatens the person with blindness. If it wraps itself about the table line, then does it promise wealth and honor to be attained by prudence and industry; if the line be cut or rugged at the upper end, it denotes much sickness. If this line be cut by any line coming from the mount of Venus, it declares the person to be unfortunate in love, and business also, and threatens him with sudden death. A cross between the line of life and the table line, shews the person to be very liberal and charitable, and of a noble spirit. Let us now see the signification of the table line.

The table line, when broad, and of a lovely colour, shews a healthful constitution, and a quiet and con∣tented mind, and courageous spirit: But if it have crosses towards the little finger, it threatens the party with much affliction by sickness. If the line be double, or divided in three parts in any of the extremities, it shews the party to be of a generous temper, and of a good fortune to support it; but if this line be forked at the end, it threatens the person shall suffer by jealousies, fears, and doubts, and with the loss of riches got by deceit. If three points such as these ... are found in it, they denote the person prudent and liberal, a lover of learning, and of a good temper. If it spreads itself towards the fore and middle fingers, and ends blunt, it denotes preferment. Let us now see what is signified by

The middle Finger.] The line has in it sometimes (for there is scarce one hand in which it varies not) divers significant characters. Many small lines between this and the table line threatens the party with sickness, and also gives him hopes of recovery. A half cross branching into this line, declares the person shall have honor, riches, and good success in all his under∣takings. A half moon denotes cold and watery dis∣tempers, but a sun or star upon this line promiseth prosperity and riches. This line doubled in a woman shews she will have several husbands, but without any children by them.

The line of Venus, if it happens to be cut or divided near the fore finger, threatens ruin to the party, and that it shall befal him by means of a lascivious woman, and bad company. Two crosses upon this line, one being on the forefinger, and the other bending towards the little finger, shews the party to be weak, and inclined to modesty and virtue; and indeed, it generally denotes modesty in women; and therefore those who desire such wives, usually choose them by this standard.

The liver line, if it be strait and crossed by other lines, shews the person to be of a sound judgment, and a piercing understanding; but if it be winding crooked, and bending outward, it shews deceit and flattery, and that the person is not to be trusted. If it makes a triangle △, or a quadrangle □, it shews the person to be of a noble descent, and ambitious of honour and pro∣motion.

If it happens that this line and the middle line be∣gin near each other, it denotes a person to be weak in his judgment, but if a woman, danger by hard labor.

The plain of Mars being in the hollow of the hand, or if the line passes through it, which renders it very plain, is fortune: This plain being hollowed, and the lines be crooked and distorted, threaten the party to fall by his ill conduct. When the lines begin at the wrist, long within the plain, reaching the brawn of the hand, they shew the person to be one given to quarreling, often in broils, and of a hot and fiery spirit, by which he shall suffer much damage. If deep large crosses in the middle of the plain, it shews the party shall obtain honor by martial exploits; but if it be a woman, that she shall have several husbands, and easy labour with her children.

The line of death is fatal, when any crosses or broken lines appear in it; for they threaten the person with sickness and a short life. A clouded moon appearing therein, threatens a child bed woman with death. A bloody spot in the line, denotes a violent death. A star like a comet threatens ruin by war, and death by pestilence; but if a bright sun appear therein, it promises long life and prosperity.

As for the lines in the wrist being fair, they denote good fortune; but if crossed and broken, the contrary.

Thus much with respect to the several lines in the hand. Now as to the judgment to be made from the hand itself: If the hand be soft and long, and lean withal, it denotes the person of a good understanding, a lover of peace and honesty, discreet, serviceable, a good neighbour, and a lover of learning. He whose hands are very thick and very short, is thereby signified to be faithful, strong and laborious, and one that cannot long retain his anger. He whose hands are full of hairs, and those hairs thick; and great ones, and his fingers withal crooked, he is thereby noted to be luxurious, vain, false, of a dull understanding and disposition, and more foolish than wise. He whose hands and fingers do bend upwards, is commonly a liberal man, serviceable, a keeper of secrecy, and apt (to be poor for he is seldom fortunate) to do any man courtesy. He whose hand is stiff and will not bend at the upper joint near his finger, is always a wretched miser∣able person, covetous, obstinate, incredulous, and one that will believe nothing that contradicts his own private interest. And thus much shall suffice to be said of judgment made by Palmestry.

Physiognomy from Lilly's Book of Knowledge

From The Lilly Book of Knowledge,
Published in New York 1806

Written by Erra Pater, a Jewish Doctor in Astronomy and Physic,
Made English by W. Lilly, Student in Physic and Astrology.

Physiognomy is an ingenious science of knowledge of nature, by which the inclinations and dispositions of every creature are understood; and because some of the members are uncompounded and entire of themselves, as the tongue, the ears, etc. and some of a mixed nature the eye, the nose and others, we therefore say, that there are many signs that agree and live together, which inform a wise man how to make his judgment, before he be too rash to deliver it to the world.
Nor is it to be esteemed a foolish or idle art, seeing it is derived from the superior bodies, for there is no part of the face of man but what is under the peculiar influence or government, not only of the seven planets, but also of the twelve signs of the zodiac, and from each governing part it is the nature and inclunation of a man or woman plainly foretold, if the person understaking this province, or pretending to it, be an artist. Which that my reader may attain to, I shall set these things in a clearer light by the following figure.

By this the reader may see at the first glance, that the forehead is governed by ♀ Mars; the right eye is under the dominion of ☉ Sol; the left eye is ruled by ☽ the Moon, or Luna; the right ear is the care of ♃ Jupiter, the left of ♄ Saturn; the ruling of the nose is claimed by ♂ Venus (which by the way is one reason that in all unlawful venereal encounters, the nose is so subject to bear the scars which are gotten in those wars) and the nimble ☿ Mercury, the significator of eloquence, claims the dominion of the mouth, and that very justly.
Thus have the seven planets divided the face among them, but not with so absolute a sway, but that the twelve signs of the Zodiac come in for a part; and therefore the sign of ♋ Cancer precides in the uppermost part of the forehead, and ♌ Leo attenting upon the right eye-brow. ♐ Sagittary does upon the right eye, and ♎ Libra upon the right ear; upon the left eye and eye-brow, you will find ♒ Aquarius and ♊ Gemini, and ♈ Aries taking care of the left ear, ♉ Taurus rules in the forehead, and ♑ Capricorn the chin, ♏ Scorpio takes upon him the protection of the nose, ♍ Virgo claims the precedence of the right cheek; and ♓ Pisces of the left; and thus the face of man is canton'd out among the signs and planets, which being carefully attented to, will sufficiently inform the artist how to pass a judgment. For according to the nature of the sign or planet ruling, so all is the judgment to be of the part ruled; which also those that have understanding know easily how to apply.

I shall now proceed to give a particular judgment of the several parts of the body: And first. Of the head.

A large head shews a person stupid and of a dull ap∣prehension, also a very small head signifies the same; but the head of a man being neither great nor small, is the prognostic of a wise man; for all extremes are irregular, and a deviation from nature; and experience has made it manifest, that a great head and small mem∣bers, do always produce much indiscretion and folly, both in man or woman; but we must also consider the several parts of the head: And first,

Of the Hair.]
The hair is only the excresence of a moist brain; yet the ancients observe several things from it; as, if the hair be thin, it shews a man to be of a weak constitution; but if curled and thick, it shews the person to be of a hot complexion: If the hair be stiff, and stand upright, either upon the head, or any other part of the body, it shews the person extreme∣ly subject to fear, and very apt to be frighted. If the hair be thick and lank, it shews the person to be meek and humble, and his constitution inclined to cold.

Of the Forehead.]
A large forehead shews a liberal man; but the forehead narrow, denotes a foolish per∣son: A long forehead shews one apt to learn, and a high forehead, swelling and round, is a sign of a crafty man, and a coward; a forehead full of wrinkles, shews a man to be envious and crafty.

Of the Eyes.]
The eyes being moist and clear, shews mirth, good manners, and an honest life, but if the eyes be declining and looking downward, or red and very great, they betoken fleshy lust; small hallow eyes signify covetousness; grey eyes an evil man, hollow eyes a crafty man, rolling eyes a wicked and vicious man, black eyes denote a sharp and piercing wit, but one lustful and incontinent; great eyes denote sloth; trembling eyes sluggishness; glittering eyes betokens drunkenness; smilling eyes shew a merry life; eyes of divers colours,, and small, denote one crafty and flat∣tering; eyes turned towards the nose, shew a man given to women; great drooping eyes, with an unsta∣ble countenance, shew a man mad; the circle of the ball green, declares a crafty wicked man, and a thief; moist eyes denote stoutness of stomach, perfect speech gluttonous and mad; high eyes, large, clear, pure and moist, are tokens of circumspection, diligent persons, and lovers; eyes always running, without sickness cause it, shew foolishness; small and hollow eyes, the cove∣tous, deceitful, and angry man; cheerful eyes betoken just men, of pleasant disposition, kind and holy; twink∣ling eyes, shew a thief and one that lays wait to catch and ensnare men; blear eyes signify a whoremas∣ter.

Of the Eyebrows.]
Upright eyebrows are amiable, but the eyebrows hanging over, shew an effeminate person. The brows very hairy, denote an impediment in his speech, and the brows being extended to the temples, shew a man to be a sloven, and uncleanly.

Of the Ears.]
Open ears shew a man to be without reason and understanding; great ears an unwise man, and small ears a fool; square ears, and of a middle size, shew a learned and wise man.

Of the Nose.]
A great nose shews a good man; a little nose a deceitful person. A sharp nose denotes an angry person, and a scold; thick and low, a person of bad manners. The nose stretching to the mouth, de∣notes honesty, strength, and aptness to learning. A nose like an ape, betokens a libidinous and riotous person; a long crooked nose, magnanimity and gener∣osity.

Of the Mouth.]
A very big mouth, with the upper lip hanging over, signifies a man foolish and unsteady, also a rash man, a babbler, a glutton, and an ungodly man. An indifferent large mouth, sheweth a bold and courageous man, a warrior.

Of the Lips.]
Thin lips with a little mouth, shews an effeminate person. Slender, thin and fine lips, be∣tokens eloquence; fleshy and great lips, a fool; and those whose teeth bear up their lips, are generally con∣tumelious, slanderers, unfaithful, also addicted to the love of women.

Of the face.]
A lean face is a token of a wise man; the face plain and flat, denotes a man of strife: The face without any rising or swelling, denotes a person injurious and unclean; a fleshy face shews a man apt to learn; a sad face sometimes denotes foolishness, and sometimes wisdom. A fat face shews a man to be a liar, and foolish; a round face signifies folly; a great face shews a man dull and slow about business; a well proportioned face shews a person to have virtuous qual∣ities, and to live a commendable life, whether they be rich or poor.

Of the Voice.]
A shrill voice denotes a person to be choleric and hasty. A great and hoarse voice shews a person to be injurious, and of a merciless temper. A weak and low voice shews a man to be fearful and cow∣ardly. A grave and slow voice shews a man to be of a sedate and quiet temper, and one of great strength.

Of the Neck.]
A neck inclining to the right side, shews a temperate man; but turning to the left side, a fool, and a man given to unlawful love. A crooked neck shews a covetous man. A thick neck denotes a rude, barbarous, ill natured man. A long slender neck shews a man to be a coward. A thick and long neck, a furious and stubborn person. A mean neck, a strong and virtuous man, and one inclined to learning.

Of the Breast.]
A broad breast is always good, and presents magnanimity, boldness, honesty and courage. A narrow breast denotes imbecility, or weakness, both of body and mind. A pursy or gross breast, shews a man to be moross, cross and void of pity. The pap• or dugs hanging down from the breast, shews a violent choleric man.

Of the Back.]
A broad back is a sign of strength; but the mean proportion of both back and breast is always commendable. A crooked or hunch back, is generally a token of a nigardly and covetous person.

Of the Belly.]
A lank belly, with a high breast, denotes a man of understanding, courage, counsel; but a great belly shews an indiscreet, foolish, proud man, and given to luxury.

Of the Arms.]
Very long arms are a sign of boldness, strength and honesty. Short arms denote a fomenter of discord and strife among friends.

Of the Hands.]
The hands very short, denote a clownish, rude, ill bread person; and if fat and fleshy, with the fingers so also, it shews they are inclined to theft. Small hands and long fingers denote a person of a genteel carriage, but crafty.

Of the Legs.]
Large and well set legs denote bold∣ness; large legs and full of sinews, shew fortitude and strength. Slender legs denote ignorance; short and fat legs cruelty. Legs crooked and hollowed inward∣ly is a sign of very ill men. Soft and swelling legs shew a man to be of very ill manners. The skin cross and short, with a sharp heel, and fat thighs, denotes madness to happen to that party.

Of the Feet.]
Small and slender feet denote hardness, but the feet full of flesh declare foolishness.