To the ancients, all things in nature had sacred or spiritual meaning. The world was inhabited by the higher beings, who took the form of fantastical creatures that were part animal, part human, and exceedingly powerful. These beings are the spirit guides who lead the departed to the next life, heal the sick, and restore balance and harmony to a troubled world. The tribal healers knew the animal spirits well. They journeyed beyond the threshold of ordinary reality to invoke the power of these great beings.

The 48 paintings by Susan Seddon Boulet (American, b. Brazil, 1941-1997) reproduced in this deck resonate with an ethereal energy and speak in the language of the soul. Each image is accompanied by a brief description of the animal's power and symbolism in various cultures.