The basilisk and philosophers’ gold
Tarot glossary
A basilisk is a legendary creature often described with a cock’s body and serpent’s tail. Brera identifies one on OLIVO and cites a medieval technical tradition in which powdered basilisk contributes to philosophers’ gold. The claim belongs to historical alchemical lore, not workable chemistry. On the card it supports Brera’s solar-alchemical reading without explaining every surrounding form.