The Medieval Scapini Tarot (Premier Edition Tarot) Cards – 5 Nov. 2007

The thing about this is it’s not a medieval deck at all, it originates in 1985 and is thus a medieval themed deck. This does not denigrate the beauty of this pack, for it has to be amongst the most artistic and beautiful ‘out there’. As a ‘Tarot’ pack it cannot be faulted, but for divinatory purposes you’ll have to decide on that. I will say that I found this an easy deck to control [ie get my base card] which now tends to give my pack an upbeat character.The set is ideal for a beginner, as well as seasoned users, as it supplies you with a layout sheet which explains what each card location means as well as a ‘tarot card’ sized 48 page booklet which has a graphic description of the card designs, it’s divinatory meaning and it’s reversed meaning, as well as alternate layouts. The major flaw is the supplied booklet spends more time describing the picture rather than its meaning –I guess you have to buy the book for that, unless you’re an experienced user and know your alchemy, masonic lore, astrology and ancient mythology etc, in which case you’ll be better off doing your own interpretations.The cards [70mm x132mm] are a little thin, but come neatly packaged in a thin card case [which also holds the little booklet], this then nestles in a larger display framed box and the whole is then slid into a outer sleeve. It’s all very professional looking and would make a great gift as none of the images are that scary or contain strong nudity. Easily a ***** buy.

This is a very unusual tarot deck. The styling is vaguely like those mediaeval/renaissance decks, but with odd modernisms. All of the cards carry a picture (but NOT imitations of the Rider-Waite deck), sometimes the imagery isn't at all clear, and because the paintings are very detailed then reduced in size to fit the card stock, some of the references in the booklet can hardly be made out on them. The originals I think were on a gold background, which sadly has come out a sort of shiny mud colour, not great. Also, the choice of image is sometimes distracting, and not at all helpful when making a reading given how small the details are. The card stock is slightly larger than usual for a tarot deck but does shuffle well.

These are utterly gorgeous in the "flesh". They look as if they will give an impression of darkness and when dealing with occult activities that is of a particular taste. However, they do not feel dark at all and are exquisitely designed. Excellent quality cards that will last many years if you take care of them.

I`ve been working with this deck for nearly 18 years. My original deck was damaged so i bought a new one. The only negative point is about the quality of the cards. My last Medieval Scapini Tarot deck lasted 17 years... this one i fear will only last a few months, maybe a year... I still recomend it. It`s a gorgeus deck.

Good.