Ancient Italian Tarots, 1880 *

by Lo Scarabeo

Like the Classical Tarots, this deck marks the coming of age of Tarot in Italy. The classic design of the Marseilles decks, reinvented by an anonymous artist, exemplifies 19th century Italian art: detailed, symbolic, and richly colored in vibrant greens, muted reds, and vivid golds. The whole decadently costumed array of Tarot archetypes are presented here, along with delicately ornamented Marseilles style pips. The Court cards are alive with personality -- the Queen of Swords looks like fun, but the club she is holding adds an ominous element. The card names are in Italian and the numbers of the Major Arcana appear in all four corners and at the center top.