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Celestial Magic: Principles And Practices of the Talismanic Art
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Displaying 1 - 1 of 1 review
September 22, 2026
Giordano Bruno’s forty-nine planetary images are exactly the sort of thing that can derail my afternoon. Jackson includes them alongside the planetary powers and gives me a reason to consider why a particular image might attract a particular influence. I like having that question taken seriously. If I’m going to put considerable effort into drawing something, I’d appreciate understanding what it’s supposed to be doing.
The Hermetic philosophy is a large part of the attraction. Jackson spends time establishing the universe in which this magic makes sense, then carries that understanding into the construction and consecration of talismans. That suits my temperament. I’m far more likely to follow instructions carefully when I understand the thinking behind them, although understanding occasionally leads to further questions and delays the entire operation.
The lunar mansions and fixed-star material give me plenty to return to. This does ask for some willingness to study astrology, and I’d want another reference nearby when working through the technical details. There’s a substantial amount packed into the book, with passages I’d prefer to take slowly.
Jackson’s artwork adds to the pleasure of it. For a subject so concerned with the power of images, having an author who can draw is a considerable advantage. I’d keep this within reach of the worktable, though apparently I’ll also need to consult the heavens before deciding when the worktable opens.
The Hermetic philosophy is a large part of the attraction. Jackson spends time establishing the universe in which this magic makes sense, then carries that understanding into the construction and consecration of talismans. That suits my temperament. I’m far more likely to follow instructions carefully when I understand the thinking behind them, although understanding occasionally leads to further questions and delays the entire operation.
The lunar mansions and fixed-star material give me plenty to return to. This does ask for some willingness to study astrology, and I’d want another reference nearby when working through the technical details. There’s a substantial amount packed into the book, with passages I’d prefer to take slowly.
Jackson’s artwork adds to the pleasure of it. For a subject so concerned with the power of images, having an author who can draw is a considerable advantage. I’d keep this within reach of the worktable, though apparently I’ll also need to consult the heavens before deciding when the worktable opens.
Displaying 1 - 1 of 1 review