This little bookmark is a powerhouse of symbology. The plunging of a blade into a chalice of wine is a dynamic symbolic gesture. It is used in Pagan/Wiccan rituals to signify the blending of the male and female energies (read polarity not gender). During a ritual an athame (ritual knife) is dipped into a chalice (sacred vessel) of wine which symbolizes the blood of life. The alchemical nature of these symbols can be readily adapted to any ritual working wherein a blending of polar energies or the piercing into another realm is desired. All that in 13 square inches! This piece is stitched on a readymade DMC bookmark of 14 count Aida. The design uses a blending of 4 metallic threads and is stitched, predominately but not exclusively, with whole stitches. As with all my designs it is readily altered to almost any use. For example, it is a very appropriate design for the cover of your Book of Shadows.