Symbolism of Putrefacation   There are many symbols of the Putrefacation stage illustrating its importance.  This stage is sometimes referred to as the nigredo or black state.  This is carried forth by the symbols of the black crow, crow's head, raven's head, black bird, black man, king slaughtered by warriors, black sun, a dead and rotting corpse, or the dead king eaten by wolves.  These symbols are often found in the Tarot decks on the death card and within many other art forms.     Here is a brief tour of some nice pieces  from the      "Art Gallery of Death.  �?"  (Link is to SLC)         Banx Tarot From the rotting of the corpse springs new life.  The top of the card states, "Change *ending* new phase*Rebirth."          Alchemical Tarot The black crow on the corpse with a plant springing forth from it.       Cosmic Tarot The skeleton wearing black garb composed (decomposed?) of rotting material.         Celtic Tarot The vapors releasing the life spark.