When it comes to choosing a Tarot deck, the options can seem endless. There are hundreds of different decks on the market, each with its own unique artwork, themes, and interpretations. It can be overwhelming to sift through them all and find the perfect deck that resonates with you.
To help simplify the process, we’ve narrowed down some of the most popular Tarot decks on the market and compared them in a Tarot Deck Showdown. We’ll take a closer look at the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, the Thoth deck, the Marseille deck, and the Wild Unknown deck to see how they stack up against each other.
The Rider-Waite-Smith deck is perhaps the most well-known and widely used Tarot deck in the world. Created by artist Pamela Colman Smith and occultist A.E. Waite in the early 20th century, this deck features traditional Tarot imagery with a modern twist. The deck consists of 78 cards, with 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards.
The artwork in the Rider-Waite-Smith deck is colorful and easy to understand, making it a great deck for beginners. The symbolism in the cards is clear and straightforward, allowing for easy interpretation. The deck also comes with a detailed guidebook that explains the meaning of each card, making it a helpful tool for those who are new to Tarot.
Next up is the Thoth deck, created by occultist Aleister Crowley and artist Lady Frieda Harris in the 1940s. This deck is known for its complex and esoteric imagery, with each card containing layers of symbolism and meaning. The Thoth deck also features 78 cards, with 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards.
The artwork in the Thoth deck is rich and detailed, drawing on a variety of esoteric and occult traditions. The imagery can be challenging to interpret for beginners, but experienced Tarot readers often find it to be a rewarding deck to work with. The deck comes with a comprehensive guidebook that delves into the deeper meanings of each card, making it a valuable resource for those who want to explore the depths of Tarot symbolism.
The Marseille deck is another popular Tarot deck, known for its simple and elegant artwork. This deck has a long history, dating back to the 16th century in France. The Marseille deck consists of 78 cards, with 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards.
The artwork in the Marseille deck is bold and straightforward, with minimalistic imagery that focuses on the essential symbolism of each card. This deck is a favorite among purists who appreciate its traditional design and historical significance. The Marseille deck does not come with a guidebook, so it may be more challenging for beginners to interpret without prior knowledge of Tarot symbolism.
Lastly, we have the Wild Unknown deck, created by artist Kim Krans in 2012. This deck is a modern interpretation of the Tarot, featuring vibrant and evocative artwork. The Wild Unknown deck consists of 78 cards, with 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards.
The artwork in the Wild Unknown deck is striking and unique, drawing on natural imagery and symbolism. The deck has a contemporary feel that appeals to a younger audience, making it a popular choice for those looking for a fresh take on the Tarot. The Wild Unknown deck comes with a guidebook that provides insightful interpretations of each card, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced Tarot readers.
In the end, choosing a Tarot deck comes down to personal preference. Each deck has its own strengths and weaknesses, and what works for one person may not work for another. Some people may be drawn to the traditional symbolism of the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, while others may resonate with the esoteric imagery of the Thoth deck.
Ultimately, the best way to find the perfect Tarot deck for you is to explore different options and see which one speaks to your intuition. Whether you prefer a classic deck like the Marseille or a modern deck like the Wild Unknown, there is a Tarot deck out there that will resonate with you and help you unlock the mysteries of the Tarot. So go ahead, take the plunge and embark on your own Tarot journey – the cards are waiting to reveal their secrets to you.
