I'm not familiar with the tools of his craft, so although I've learned that the bell-shaped mallet really is an appropriate tool for his work, I still sometimes wonder if he is using the "right tool for the right job."
This figure is reminiscent of B'tzalel (בְּצַלְאֵל) from Tanakh, (for whom the art academy in Jerusalem is named). B'tzalel was chosen to create the wilderness tabernacle because he understood how to combine the letters through which the universe was created. He was filled "with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship." (Shmot 31:3)
This artisan is completing the details on stone wings that surmount a sanctuary. It's clear that other people are also engaged in completing this project. Firstly, the knot-work on the arch below his right arm is incomplete; perhaps, as Robin Wood suggests, it is an exercise for his apprentice. Secondly, behind the stone wings is a colorful tapestry with fringes like rays of the sun. I imagine a workshop of the "women who wove for the Temple" happily bringing their work and raising it up in the Temple.
The light from below that reflects off his sleeves suggests that he is in the spotlight. People are admiring his achievements. He is dressed finely, suggesting that he is presenting the progress of the work to a patron or the leaders of the community. I love the "feather in his cap," which reminds me of Yankee Doodle. The cap is green, showing that his mind is fertile.
The adjective "alive" or the masculine, singular, present tense of the verb "to live" (חי) seems to be embroidered on his red sleeve cuff. Creative expression is one of the blessings of being alive; it is how we make meaning. All the Pentacles are reminders of the miracle of life. You don't have to be Michelangelo to make each day holy; living can be an art. In the Eight of Pentacles, this artisan was the apprentice; with maturity, he has become a master in the Three of Pentacles.
I love the dark brown that belt Robin Wood drew around his waist. I can almost feel it's texture, and to me, it implies grounding. He's not just dreaming; he's practical in his creativity. His right ear reflects the shape of a cursive Śin (ש), suggesting that he is listening to divine guidance.
This card is about creativity and collaboration. It can indicate learning and being off to a good start. Reversed, it may indicate carelessness, lack of skill, or a failure to participate in tikun olam, the recreation of the world.
For me, today, it represents the joy of being gainfully employed and having really nice co-workers. It's also a reminder that even though my job may not be an exalted one, it has real value.
