A tarot deck can always be approached on several different levels – from the light and intuitive to the deeply reflective and esoteric. Perhaps you read the cards spontaneously based on what arises in the moment, or perhaps you choose to immerse yourself in layers of classical symbolism, numerology and astrological correspondences. The experience is also shaped to a large extent by the book or guide you choose to keep by your side.
A central idea behind this particular category is the potential for a truly deep dive. Many of these decks – especially those rooted in traditions such as the Tarot de Marseille – have a Minor Arcana without ready-made scenic illustrations, adorned instead with pure symbols (pips). Without a pre-drawn narrative, the cards invite a freer and deeper interpretation, where you as a practitioner work directly with the dynamics of the four elements, the mysticism of numbers and the original power of the symbols.
Visconti-Sforza Tarot
The Visconti-Sforza tarot decks are among the oldest preserved tarot cards in the world and were created in the mid-15th century in Milan, commissioned by the powerful Visconti and Sforza families. They were probably used mostly as playing cards and status symbols, rather than for divination and self-reflection. None of the original decks has been preserved in its entirety, but thanks to reconstructions, complete versions are available today.
The images are richly decorated with gold and detailed Renaissance art, but unlike modern Rider–Waite–Smith decks, the Minor Arcana is not illustrated with scenes. Instead, only the number of swords, cups, wands or coins is shown (for example, eight cups), which gives more freedom and room for interpretation – but also makes the cards more challenging for beginners.
See our collection of Visconti tarot decks!
Tarot de Marseille
The Tarot de Marseille was developed mainly in France and Switzerland during the 17th and 18th centuries. It builds on the Visconti-Sforza, but in a more popular and standardised form that spread widely across Europe. The Marseille decks have clearer lines, stylised figures and blocks of colour, and became the predecessor of many modern tarot traditions, including Rider–Waite–Smith.