Sigil

A sigil is a graphic symbol created to condense an intention or to represent an entity. The best-known modern technique was developed by the artist Austin Osman Spare in the early twentieth century: the intention is written down, repeated letters are removed and the remaining ones are combined into an abstract design that no longer reads as a word. It is then charged, for example through concentration or a candle flame, and forgotten so that it works without the interference of the conscious mind. Medieval and Renaissance grimoires also contain traditional seals of spirits and planets.