The circle is also the symbol of Eternity, as having neither beginning nor end; in Scandinavian art it is represented as a serpent.
The orb as a symbol of power may possibly have its origin in the stone or weight, which in ancient times was kept by the tribal chief. To lift this was the test of the youth aspiring to manhood, a custom which is preserved in the Highland games when “putting the stone” is one of the tests of strength.
The Wand a Symbol of Authority
Another symbol of authority is the wand in its various forms of sceptre, mace or baton. This probably had its origin in the strong man’s club, a form which is still retained in the official mace.
The sceptre has various forms of terminals, as the Dove, and the open hand, the significance of the latter being authority with power to reward or punish.
The Hand
The hand was a symbol of fortitude in Egypt and of fidelity in Rome—two joined hands signifying concord.
Previous to the twelfth century the supreme being was often represented by a hand extended from the clouds, sometimes open with rays extending from the fingers in token of divine Grace.
The red hand is generally connected with some traditional tale of violence, and is so expressed on the shield of Ulster. An allusion to the tradition that the adventurer O’Neile vowed to be the first to land in Ireland, and finding his boat outstripped, cut off his hand and flung it ashore.
The Hand is also an emblem of handicraft, when generally an eye is represented in the palm, as significant of eye and hand being in harmonious accord.