Some Example Cups with Their Interpretations
The following twenty illustrations are photographs of cups which on various occasions have been turned by consultants and interpreted by a seer. The student will find these of much practical value in learning what symbols to look for, and how to discern them clearly as the cup is turned about in the hand.
The divination of each cup should be carefully studied with its illustration; by this means the student will be enabled to grasp the principles upon which to form a judgment of the cup as a whole.
Having mastered this, the knowledge gained can be supplemented by reference to the alphabetical Dictionary of Symbols and Their Meanings in the previous chapter.
To study the illustrations and their descriptions correctly, the former must be turned about and about until each symbol has been identified.
TWENTY ILLUSTRATIONS
WITH THEIR INTERPRETATIONS
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE I
The most noticeable feature of this cup is the clear evidence given that the chief interests of the consultant are bound up in some man in India. That there is delay in receiving important news from him is shown by the symbol of the pigeon on the stone immediately beneath the handle. But that most favourable news may be expected later is certain, for the figure of a man upon an elephant with a pineapple beyond gives proof of this. The natives with the large "P" in conjunction show that the Punjaub is indicated, and this is further emphasised by the sign-post which points towards these symbols. The child's toys show the consultant's association and happiness with children. The figure of the woman seated on the edge of a rock with its curious peak behind her, and the seagull below, suggest that storms at sea will cause distress to some woman known to the consultant. The small figure "11," close to this symbol, points out that it is likely to be eleven days before there is hope of the anxiety being relieved.
FIGURE I
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Natives on post. Large letter "P." Child's toys. Woman with uplifted hands on curious shaped rock. Small numeral "11" above. Seagull perched on small rock beneath.
In centre.—Pigeon standing on large stone, man in sun helmet on elephant. Sign-post pointing to letter "P."
Near rim and handle.—A pineapple on dish.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE II
This cup shows that a variety of events may be expected, with a fair proportion of pleasure and success to be anticipated from them.
The finger beyond the handle pointing to the ark indicates that in all trials the consultant will find a refuge. The hanging lamp is also a guarantee of coming success, and prosperous undertakings, in some new plan which is under consideration.
The clouds, the symbol of the goat beyond which is facing into the open gateway, signify that an advantageous opportunity, to which a certain amount of risk is attached, awaits the consultant; the prominent figurehead upon the stone pillar gives assurance that all will turn out well, and that there is no need for hesitation in embarking upon this new opportunity; that it will necessitate a removal is shown by the buildings beyond. The quill pen and dots point to the fact that some legal business will be transacted over money affairs.
The dove-cot in the centre, with the form of a widow with dots around, signifies that a benefit to the home may be expected in the future, through a widow. The clergyman in conjunction, holding a paper, shows that the benefit will probably come about through a reconciliation. The bank of clouds behind the ferry boat shows that some trouble, to be expected in the future, will be lightened by the help of good friends. Whilst the bird stationary upon the piece of wood, at some distance from the consultant, and in conjunction with the letter "L," means uncertainty as to some desired information, which should come from someone whose name begins with "L."
FIGURE II
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Finger. Small ark. Hanging lamp and shade. Large arm-chair. Bank of clouds. Goat. Large open gateway. Curious shaped figurehead upon a stone pillar. Low curved wall and buildings. Small quill pen and dots.
In centre.—Dove-cot. Widow in flowing veil seated in chair. Dots around. Man in clerical hat holding an open paper in his hand.
Near rim.—Shapeless leaves. Small ferry boat on water. Bird standing on log of wood. Letter "L."
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE III
The cat with dots around being near the handle indicates financial worry in the home. The bone beyond shows that the misfortunes will be met with courage, and eventually overcome. The cockatoo, with the cauliflower appearing on the opposite side, signifies that an unreliable friend will cause the consultant a little uneasiness, and as a small symbol of a mushroom is beside it, a quarrel with this undesirable friend may be expected.
The pear may be linked to the symbol of the font in the centre of the cup, showing that the consultant may expect news of a birth; the carving indicates that the news will give much satisfaction; the wine-cup, with the leg in conjunction, points out that the ambitions of the consultant will certainly be realised in the future. That a certain amount of waiting will be necessary is shown by the distance from the handle.
The motor boat, and monument in the centre, foretell the successful outcome of a new venture, which at present is unthought-of. The rocks show that a certain amount of mental agitation is aroused by the setting out on this undertaking, but, with the reassuring symbols in this cup, no alarm is necessary.
FIGURE III
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On side under handle.—Cat. Scattered dots.
On side.—Bone. Cockatoo upon a stump of wood. Small symbol of a leg. Wine-cup held in hand. Small symbol of a mushroom. Pear. Cauliflower.
On circle under handle.—Curious shaped rocks.
On circle beyond.—Monument.
In centre.—Motor boat. Font. Carved figures.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE IV
The symbol of the seal being directly under the handle, with the large arch and carving beyond, show that the consultant will soon enjoy the fulfilment of a long desired hope; everything is going smoothly, and will turn out as desired. The only obstacle is seen in the symbol of the weasel, which appears beyond the seal, pointing to the fact that the consultant has someone who is not to be trusted in the home, but this will not result in anything serious.
The figures of the two women opposite the handle show the arrival of friends to the "house," bringing presents with them. The inkpot, pen, and numeral "7," with the bird's nest in connection, show that happy news, as the result of personal effort on the part of the consultant, may be looked for within seven days.
The rock, motor, and wavy lines being in conjunction, warn the consultant of some forthcoming vexation, and possibly alarm, in connection with a motor expedition, but the episode is in the distance, and will not be more than a passing cloud.
The slug, at the bottom of the cup, predicts a future disturbance with someone, but the matter will be trifling. The large symbol of the king and queen upon the throne, opposite the handle, foretells a future of honour and wealth, and the assurance of every happiness for this fortunate consultant.
FIGURE IV
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
Opposite handle on circle.—Two women, inside figure carrying basket, outside figure with parcel under arm.
On sides.—Line of wavy dots. Large rock. Motor. Bird's nest. Pen. Numeral "7." Inkpot.
On circle.—Large arch with carving.
In centre.—Slug. Figures of King and Queen on throne.
Under handle.—Seal. Weasel.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE V
The large rock on the side, with the letter "J" beside it, speaks of a forthcoming vexation or trouble caused by someone whose name begins with "J." The necklace and jewellery beyond, with scattered dots around, give a cheerful assurance to the consultant of coming prosperity. This is further emphasised by the circle of dots above the letter "C" in the centre. As the initial is large, it probably indicates the name of the place from which the source of wealth may be anticipated; and that much happiness will come to the consultant in the future, is shown by the dancing figure and carved figures being in conjunction.
The small basket, the sausage, and roll of bread, with the query and "2" beyond, all point to the fact that the consultant will have little complaints and grumbles to put up with, and there will be some doubt as to which of two people is most to blame. But it will be only a small ripple upon the otherwise smooth surface of the consultant's outlook.
FIGURE V
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Large rocks. Letter "J" in conjunction. Necklace. Jewellery.
In centre.—Large ornamental "C." Circle of dots above. Figure of girl dancing with arm upraised beneath. Carved figures.
In centre near circle.—Basket. Large sausage with roll of bread in conjunction. Small query. Numeral "2."
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE VI
The numeral "4," beside the shapeless leaves, and the line leading from this to the flat rock beyond, indicate that in about four days the consultant may expect to meet with obstacles in the way of some prospective outing or pleasure, which will probably fall through.
The corkscrew, with the letter "C" in conjunction, signifies vexatious curiosity as to the consultant's private concerns, on the part of persons whose names begin with these initials. But that it is merely a passing annoyance is shown by the symbol of the arch, and dancing figures above it, and, with the fig tree beyond, foretells the development of things most wished for, and much future happiness and prosperity.
The anvil in the centre, with the branches of a tree in conjunction, suggests that it will be largely owing to the consultant's energy that this hopeful outlook in the future may safely be predicted.
FIGURE VI
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Corkscrew. Letter "C." Arch. Dancing figures above. Fig tree.
Near rim.—Shapeless leaves. Numeral "4." Line leading to flat rock.
In centre.—Anvil. Branches of a tree.
Under handle.—Scattered dots.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE VII
Although the small symbol of the dagger points towards the consultant, it would not in this case predict a personal danger, as there are no further signs of illness or misfortune. So that it may safely be taken to mean that the consultant will shortly be going to see a friend who has had an operation; this fact is borne out by the short dotted line beyond, leading to the door knocker, under which is written the word "in."
The numeral "7" coming at the end of the dotted line would show that it will probably be seven weeks before this friend recovers from the illness. This friend's name is shown to begin with "L," as that letter is also near the end of the lines.
The more distant signs of a brooch and a cabinet beyond both foretell the unexpected development of good fortune. If the consultant is married, the thimble in the centre would show future changes in the household; that they will be advantageous is shown by the large feather which gives assurance of a prosperous future.
That this may come about through a friend, or lover, is shown by the cigar, and is further emphasised by the large dots beside it.
A warning against extravagance, however, is given to the consultant by the crinoline, which appears amidst these signs of future wealth.
FIGURE VII
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
Near rim.—Small dagger. Short dotted line leading to door knocker, with "in" written beneath. Numeral "7." Letter "L." Dots.
On sides near circle.—Group of dots and small symbols showing presents. Brooch. Cabinet.
In centre.—Crinoline. Large feather. Small cigar. Thimble.
Under handle.—Symbols of letters and parcels.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE VIII
The only definite indication of future prospects is shown by the symbol of the organ, and acorn, upon the circle at the bottom of the cup, the position of these signs showing that hope will not be realised for some time.
But these symbols make the prediction of ultimate success a safe one. Should the consultant be a musician, triumph in the profession would be assured.
The coal scoop and beetle are significant of domestic worries and household cares. But the tea cosy in the centre promises compensation in the way of small comforts and affection.
FIGURE VIII
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
Small symbol of a coal scoop.
On circle.—Organ. Acorn beside it. Beetle.
In centre.—Tea cosy.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE IX
This cup would be singularly disappointing from the consultant's point of view, as it is devoid of incident.
The large spray of thistle on the rim indicates an unselfish life of endurance. For the present, there is no sign of a more eventful existence.
The dust-pan, brush, and duster, in the centre, point to future domestic vexations, but the large spray of iris beside it promises a pleasure which will far outbalance the trifling disturbance.
FIGURE IX
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
Near rim.—Thistle.
Centre.—Dust-pan and brush. Duster. Large spray of iris.
Under handle.—Shapeless leaves.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE X
The most striking features of this cup are the various indications of pleasure and social enjoyment. These being shown by the cake and butterfly, while the orchid in conjunction predicts that the consultant's personal charm and power of attraction will result in a future of wealth and social distinction.
The pillar, near the rim and handle, gives a pleasing assurance of security and loyal friends. The bird flying from the cage brings joyful news, that something which has been an obstacle in the way of the consultant's desires is about to be removed, and much future happiness may be looked for.
The figure of the man fishing from a rock foreshows the arrival of a visitor, who will have some pleasant news to tell.
The toque opposite the handle, but at the bottom of the cup, gives further evidence of the good luck coming to this fortunate consultant.
FIGURE X
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
Near rim.—Small stone pillar. Cake on dish. Man on rock fishing.
On sides.—Bird cage, small bird flying from it.
On circle.—Butterfly. Lady's hat.
In centre.—Orchid with long stalk.
Under handle.—Shapeless leaves.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XI
This cup indicates that the consultant is apt to be ruffled by trifles and to become upset by anything unexpected. As, for instance, in the case of the arrival of visitors, shown by the mass of leaves and chair. The query beside it shows the indecision of the consultant's mind as to necessary arrangements. The boots on the opposite side denote that lack of income will not trouble the consultant.
But that there is some misfortune or hindrance in the future is shown by the symbol of the broken cross in the bottom of the cup; the head and shoulders of the woman beside it suggest that this trouble will be caused by a woman. Compensation will be found in the happy love affair, which is clearly predicted by the cherries, the figures of the man and woman embracing, and the man's hat and pipe.
Large dots signify that wealth will be added to happiness. This event must not be expected for some months, as the symbols are in the bottom of the cup.
The letter "N" with the dots and small tree beyond show an immediate pleasant happening, in connection with a person whose name begins with that letter.
FIGURE XI
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
Near rim.—Mass of leaves. Stones.
On sides.—Chair. Query. Two boots.
On circle.—Figure of man and woman embracing. Small bunch of cherries beneath. Several dots. Man's hat and pipe in conjunction.
In centre.—Broken cross. Head and shoulders of woman.
Under handle.—Letter "N." Small tree beyond.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XII
The present conditions of this consultant are not cheering. The large cloud, associated with dots, the small dog on the opposite side, and the policeman beyond, all point to grievous money worries, possibly caused by dishonesty.
The somewhat indistinct axe implies a brave effort to overcome, and final mastery of, some of the difficulties.
However, the future has more pleasant prospects, and may be looked forward to with hope. The symbols of the clover and cherries, give assurance of this.
The spray of ivy speaks of the patience with which the present trials are borne, also that true friends are a source of comfort to the consultant.
FIGURE XII
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On side.—Small dog lying down.
Near rim.—Policeman. Indistinct symbol of an axe. Large cloud. Dots.
Centre.—Two small butterflies. Small symbol of a stocking. Small bunch of cherries. Spray of ivy. Clover.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XIII
The consultant who has "turned" this cup must be prepared for delays, and must not expect real happiness until rather late in life, this being shown by the bonnet and strings on the side of the cup.
The small symbol of birds on a perch gives further evidence that having to wait is a feature of the consultant's lot. The rock and pipe beyond show some dismay with regard to a dear friend.
The large spray of mistletoe and holly at the bottom of the cup, with the letters "F" and "L" in conjunction, implies that some event of importance to the consultant, in connection with persons whose names begin with these initial letters, will occur in the winter. If the cup has been "turned" during the autumn or winter, probably a year will pass before the event takes place, as the mistletoe indicates delay. But this consultant is prepared to hear the truth, and faces it calmly, even if it is a little unpleasant; the symbol of the woman looking into the glass brings this fact to light.
The child playing with its toys foreshows future pleasant plans which will result in tranquillity and satisfaction.
FIGURE XIII
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Bonnet and strings. Birds on perch. Pieces of rock. A pipe.
On circle.—Child with toys.
Centre.—Large sprays of mistletoe and holly. Letters "F" and "L." Figure of woman looking in glass.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XIV
This cup was "turned" by a well-known authoress. Its sinister appearance is accounted for by the fact that at the time of "turning" the cup, she was arranging mentally a murder plot for the book she was then writing.
The symbols speak for themselves and need no explanation.
It is a most interesting specimen, as being absolutely unique.
FIGURE XIV
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On side overlapping circle.—Tail and hindquarters of rat, with head in a hole. Monster with a man's head and bear's paws.
On side.—Dead fish beyond.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XV
The consultant who "turned" this cup was sorrowful and had either just passed through a bereavement, or such will take place in the immediate future. The rough cross and the grave near the handle point to this. The bed, with the figure of the woman in nurse's cloak near it tells of serious illness in the home. But this is a future trouble, as the symbols appear at some distance from the handle. The saucepan also bears witness to the general gloom.
The ivy leaves beyond the rough cross show the patience with which the consultant bears the trials; also that good and loyal friends will be a source of comfort.
The small bit of wood and the closed book are symbols of hope, and assure this sad consultant that the expected improvement in affairs will certainly take place and will relieve some of the present anxieties.
This is the most that can be foretold of the future, for there are no signs of pleasant events or definite changes. Indeed, the symbol of the loaf of bread in the centre of the cup shows that monotony and ordinary routine are all that can be predicted from the divination.
FIGURE XV
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
Near rim.—Rough cross. Ivy leaves beyond. Large closed book.
On sides.—Log of wood. Bed. Figure of a woman in nurse's cloak beside it. Grave, with small cross.
In centre.—Loaf of bread. Small symbol of a saucepan.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XVI
This cup gives an impression of a somewhat undeveloped character which is further brought into notice by the stump of a tree on the circle; the hen on a nest, near the handle, points to a home life of comfort and affection.
The egg in the cup, and the duck, show that a risk of threatened disaster, as a result of rash speculation will be averted, and with the symbol of the three boots, fortunate prospects, and the guarantee of hope fulfilled, may safely be predicted for the future.
FIGURE XVI
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Hen on nest. Shapeless leaves. Egg in cup.
Near circle opposite handle.—A duck.
On circle.—Stump of tree. Three boots.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XVII
The figure of the child, with its toys beyond, implies that new plans, to be made very soon, will be most beneficial, and will bring much pleasure to the consultant. But as the sausages and snail are not far distant, there is likely to be a marring of the pleasant conditions, caused by an act of unfaithfulness on the part of someone with whom the consultant is closely connected.
The bellows beyond suggest that the matter is treated with as much philosophy as possible, and with a resolve to make the best of a bad business; the ham also, being in conjunction, it is evident that the episode will not interfere with the consultant's success in life.
The sign post, with the running figure beside it and the large letter "M" beyond, prepare the consultant for startling news, the result of which will be of great importance. The news will come from a place beginning with the letter "M." There is no doubt that the matter will turn out admirably and bring about many advantages, as shown by the spreading branches of the tree; while the grapes beneath promise abundant success and joy.
The large boot-tree and latch-key on the circle beneath the handle predict a fortunate and unexpected gain in the near future. This consultant may look forward with confidence to the pleasures which fate has in store.
FIGURE XVII
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Child seated. Toys beyond. Sausages. Snail. Ham. Bellows.
In centre.—Sign post. Running figure beside it. Large letter "M" in conjunction.
On circle.—Tree with spreading branches. Bunch of grapes beneath. Large boot-tree. Latch-key.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XVIII
The shadow beneath the haycock shows that the consultant will soon be placed in a somewhat trying position and will have considerable difficulty in finding a way out of it.
The future is full of promise and there can be little doubt that the consultant will enjoy the pleasures of prosperity.
A journey to a cold climate to be taken later will result in very propitious news as shown by the symbol of the pheasant.
FIGURE XVIII
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Shapeless leaves. Haycock. Shadow beneath.
In centre.—Pair of boots. Spreading branches of a tree. Pheasant flying.
Near circle.—Head of a polar bear.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XIX
The doll on the side, with the small symbol of a toadstool beside it, gives a warning to the consultant against folly and a bad habit of gossiping when feeling bored in society. The stuffed head of the deer, in this case, shows that much distress is caused by the unguarded talk, and the consultant certainly cannot be described as an "innocent cause."
The various scattered shapeless leaves point to confusion, and a somewhat "happy-go-lucky" nature. The spray of poppies on the circle beneath the handle foreshows that a pleasant experience may be expected in the summer.
The broken gate, with the cross above it, denotes that a new opportunity which awaits the consultant at a future date, will coincide with a time of perplexity and trouble, which fact is further borne out by the running figure below. This being in conjunction with a large letter "Y," implies that the disturbance will arise in connection with a place, the name of which begins with "Y."
FIGURE XIX
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Small symbol of a toadstool. Doll. Head of a stuffed deer.
Near rim.—Many shapeless leaves.
On circle.—Spray of poppies.
In centre.—Broken gate with cross above it. Large "Y." Running figure.
INTERPRETATION
FIGURE XX
This cup shows confusion and that the consultant was in a state of mental turmoil at the time of "turning" it. But in spite of this drawback there are some interesting facts to be found.
The dotted circles and large ornamental arch point to a most hopeful outlook and to the successful development of some desire at present unattainable.
The various initials and small numerals scattered about show correspondence as to plans and fixing of dates. The bush apple tree speaks of some pleasure which may be looked forward to in the summer.
The dancing figures predict much future happiness; the numerous changes which are likely to come about will all tend to success and the gratifying of the consultant's wishes. And what more cheerful outlook than this can be desired?
FIGURE XX
PRINCIPAL SYMBOLS
On sides.—Scattered shapeless leaves. Several initials. Small numerals. Dotted circles. A large ornamental arch.
Near circle.—Bush apple tree.
In centre.—Dancing and grotesque figures.
