The Ancient Italian Tarot stands as a monumental pillar in the history of cartomancy, representing a lineage that traces back to the very origins of the Tarot tradition. Dating to the 15th century, this deck is revered not only for its historical significance but also for its rich tapestry of symbolism and artistry. It is widely considered by enthusiasts to be the "gold standard" against which other decks are measured. The deck described in the source materials is a glorious reproduction of an 1880 design by Cartiera Italiana, originally based on the designs of Della Rocca. This specific version, published by Lo Scarabeo, preserves the intricate details and traditional aesthetics that have defined the Italian Tarot for centuries.
The evolution of the Tarot from a recreational pastime to a tool of divination is a fascinating journey rooted in Italian culture. Originally, in the 15th century, Tarot cards were simply playing cards used by the Italian upper crust in a game called "tarocchi." It was not until the 17th century, with the first documented uses of the tradition in Bologna, that the cards began to be associated with mysticism. However, the modern dissemination of Tarot in fortune-telling and its association with occultism did not officially begin until the late 18th century, largely linked to French occultists. Despite this, the Italian decks remained the bedrock of the tradition.
The Ancient Italian Tarot deck is a comprehensive 78-card system, divided into the Major Arcana (0-21) and the Minor Arcana. The Minor Arcana consists of four suits: Coins, Clubs, Cups, and Swords, corresponding to the traditional suits of Pentacles, Wands, Cups, and Swords found in other systems. Each suit contains the Ace through 10, plus the court cards: the Foot Jack, Mounted Jack, Queen, and King. The deck also includes a title card and an advertising card, bringing the total to 80 cards in the reproduction.
A distinct feature of the Ancient Italian Tarot is its heavy influence by Marseilles iconography, though it adheres to specific Italian stylistic variations. The illustrations are described as intricate, significant, and beautifully painted in rich greens, subtle reds, and dazzling golds. The figures on the cards possess expressions and attitudes that invite the reader to interpret emotional and narrative nuances. Unlike the Rider-Waite Tarot, which features scenic illustrations on the pip cards, the Ancient Italian Tarot relies on a more symbolic and abstract representation. The pip cards are generally devoid of landscape, focusing on the focal character and a few supplementary accents. This lack of extensive scenery is noted to leave significant room for the reader's instincts and intuition to play a role in the interpretation.
The visual design of the deck has been carefully adapted for this reproduction. The areas of the illustrations have been considerably shortened to allow for the insertion of tags along the edge, making the cards easier to handle. The back of the cards features a convertible design with gorgeous colorful foliage and arches, a feature appreciated by users who value the ability to reverse cards without revealing the orientation. The cards themselves are light and shiny, resembling genuine playing cards, which aids in shuffling and arrangement.
When comparing the meanings of the Ancient Italian Tarot to the more common Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) system, significant differences are noted, particularly regarding the pip cards. The accompanying booklet, which is translated into five languages (English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German), provides card readings that frequently differ from standard RWS meanings. This suggests that readers familiar with the RWS system will need to adjust their approach to align with the specific symbolism and narrative structure of the Italian tradition. The deck is a moderate artistic variant on processing standards, meaning that while conventional symbols are present, they are rendered in a unique style that reflects the "nineteenth European art" sensibility.
In terms of physical specifications, the deck is compact and portable. The cards measure 66mm x 120mm, with overall dimensions of the package being 5.06 x 2.92 x 1.17 inches, and a weight of 7.7 ounces. This size makes it convenient for travel and personal use.
The publisher, Lo Scarabeo, is noted for its high craftsmanship and unique decks. They have received worldwide appreciation for their ability to feature the best Italian painters residing globally. The Ancient Italian Tarot is a testament to their commitment to preserving the great heritage of the Tarot while generating inventive new decks. The deck was published on September 8, 2000, and continues to be a choice among enthusiasts for its blend of historical authenticity and aesthetic beauty.
The Minor Arcana suits in the Italian tradition carry specific connotations. The suit of Coins relates to earthly matters, finances, and the physical world. Clubs (often associated with Wands) relate to energy, action, and creativity. Cups deal with emotions, relationships, and intuition. Swords address the realm of the mind, conflict, and communication. The court cards—Foot Jack, Mounted Jack, Queen, and King—represent personalities or aspects of a querent's character or people in their lives. The Foot Jack may represent a younger, grounded energy, while the Mounted Jack suggests movement and travel. The Queen and King represent mature, established energies of their respective suits.
The Major Arcana follows the standard numbering from 0 (The Fool) to 21 (The World). However, the imagery is distinct from the RWS deck. The Fool is depicted with the innocence and potential for new beginnings, but the visual cues are rooted in the Italian artistic style. The Magician holds the tools of the trade, but the specific arrangement and background differ. The High Priestess represents intuition and hidden knowledge, depicted with the traditional symbols but in a unique composition. The Empress and Emperor represent nurturing and authority, respectively. The Hierophant signifies tradition and spiritual guidance. The Lovers card, in this deck, may depict the theme of choice and union with the distinct iconography of the Della Rocca influence. The Chariot represents willpower and victory, while Justice (card 8) and Strength (card 11) follow the older ordering often found in Tarot de Marseille style decks, though the specific ordering in the Ancient Italian Tarot should be verified against the deck's specific structure. The Hermit seeks wisdom, the Wheel of Fortune turns, and Death represents transformation. Temperance balances opposites, the Devil binds, and the Tower signifies upheaval. The Star offers hope, the Moon illuminates the subconscious, the Sun brings clarity, Judgment calls for awakening, and the World completes the cycle.
The process of reading with the Ancient Italian Tarot involves a deep connection to the historical roots of the practice. Readers are encouraged to utilize the accompanying booklet, which provides meanings specific to this deck. Given the differences in pip card meanings from the RWS system, the booklet is an essential tool for those not already versed in the Marseilles or Italian traditions. The deck's design, with its "convertible" backs and playing card feel, facilitates a smooth reading experience.
The historical context of the deck adds a layer of depth to readings. Knowing that the deck reproduces a 1880 design based on 19th-century European art and earlier Italian traditions connects the reader to a lineage of mysticism that spans centuries. The deck is not merely a tool for divination but a piece of art history. The "subdued hues" and "traditional design style" mentioned by users contribute to a serious and contemplative atmosphere during readings.
For those interested in the "Mystical Journey of Tarots," the Ancient Italian Tarot serves as an authentic starting point. It bridges the gap between the early days of tarocchi as a card game and the later development of Tarot as a divinatory system. The deck retains the elegance of the Renaissance while incorporating the symbolic density of the 19th-century occult revival.
The user experience with this deck highlights its practicality and aesthetic appeal. Users have noted that the cards are light and shiny, making them easy to handle. The back design is particularly praised for its beauty and functionality. While there is little landscape on the cards, the focus on the figures allows for a concentrated interpretation of the archetypes presented. The potential for instincts to play a role is high, making this deck suitable for readers who prefer to rely on their intuition rather than strict memorization of scenic illustrations.
In summary, the Ancient Italian Tarot is a high-quality reproduction of a classic deck. It offers a window into the history of Tarot, from its Italian origins to its spread across Europe. It is a deck of 78 cards, plus extras, featuring the standard structure of Major and Minor Arcana with Italian suit names and court cards. Its artwork is rooted in the Della Rocca style and Marseilles iconography, characterized by rich colors and symbolic focus. The accompanying booklet provides essential meanings that differ from the RWS system. Published by Lo Scarabeo, a reputable publisher known for preserving Tarot heritage, this deck is a valuable tool for both beginners seeking to learn the traditional foundations and experienced readers looking to explore the nuances of the Italian Tarot tradition.
Conclusion
The Ancient Italian Tarot remains a vital and respected deck within the community of cartomancy. Its historical significance, dating back to the 15th century and reproduced from 19th-century designs, provides a tangible link to the origins of Tarot reading. The deck's structure, consisting of 78 cards with Latin suits and unique court cards, adheres to the traditional Italian format. The artwork, heavily influenced by Marseilles iconography yet distinct in its Della Rocca style, offers a rich visual language for divination. While the meanings of the pip cards differ from the widely used Rider-Waite-Smith system, the provided booklet serves as a reliable guide for interpretation. The deck's physical qualities, including its convertible back design and convenient size, enhance its usability. Ultimately, the Ancient Italian Tarot is a testament to the enduring legacy of Italian artistry and mysticism, offering a profound tool for those seeking insight and guidance through the ages-old practice of Tarot reading.