The Emperor is the father archetype of the tarot. He sits upon a large stone throne adorned with flowers. The Emperor has an ankh, the Egyptian symbol of life, and an orb representing the world over which he rules.
He wears a red cloak, indicative of his power, passion and energy for life. His white fur is symbolic of his age-old wisdom and experience, and along with his gold crown, he is an authority figure who demands to be heard.
Behind his throne looms a mountain range, signifying that he is backed by a solid foundation but resistant to making any changes unless he deems it necessary.