Instead of following the order of the calendar, each zodiac symbol is matched with one of a similar motif on the opposite side of the text. In this way, animal goes with animal, human with human; the exception is Pisces, which corresponds to Libra, since both signs feature pairs. The blank shield above was meant for the coats of arms of the bride and groom. (Wealthy Italian Jews frequently adopted unofficial emblems to imitate the local nobility.) Prepared in advance by the artist, the frame was later acquired by a couple that had no family crests, so it remains empty.