Aquarian Tarot by David Palladini
Hello, soul friends!
Today's review is covering a deck that caught my attention for it's beautiful art deco/nouveau style artwork. I loved the details, color, and overall theme of the cards. I couldn't wait to get my paws on it and work with this beauty. I had seen it posted over the years but finally felt drawn to it.
I hope you enjoy my review and generous pictures!
Aquarian Tarot
I got this deck via an Etsy seller and just loved it. I have a lot of different Tarot decks, but this artwork was just too interesting and the smaller bridge size makes it stand out from my other decks. This fits in my purse. It was a bit different from my other Tarot decks, so I thought it would be a good addition to check it out.
Amazon's description of the Tarot Mucha:
The compelling art deco imagery of the iconic Aquarian Tarot in a Tin, first introduced in 1970, is now presented in a charming keepsake tin. Aquarian Tarot brought medieval tarot symbolism into the modern Aquarian age. The deck has remained a bestseller throughout the four decades it has been in print and still resonates today with those seeking transformation. Cards in this pocket-sized deck measure 2.30 x 3.70. Includes foldout instructions.
My Personal Review
This 78-card deck is meant to be used as a Tarot deck, allowing you to use them as a traditional deck. This pocket sized edition has dimensions of 2.30 x 3.70 inches. It is published by U.S. Games Systems, Inc. It has been in print since the 70s. My initial intention was to purchase an original version from the 70s, as I was wanting a more dog eared tarot deck, as most of my decks are usually kept in pristine condition, except for a couple of them which I have had for almost 10 years and use as my hardest working sets. My first Tarot deck that I purchased was from the late 90s, and that is still in great condition, as I am very careful with the deck. I am also very gentle when shuffling that deck, so I wanted to purchase something that I could throw in my purse and could still do readings with on the go. The addition of a metal tin is a nice touch as it keeps the deck protected. The artwork by David Palladini is stunning! There is a funky vibe, but it feels timeless, as well. The colors are a bit more muted but I enjoy the color theme throughout and the running theme and consistent drawing style in the deck.
The card backs are as lovely as the images on the front of each card. They are a reversable image and pattern in blue, with white borders. The cards are high quality with a nice feel that makes shuffling smooth. The number and symbol is printed on the front of each card which corresponds to descriptions in the guidebook. There is nothing harsh, garish, or obscene in this deck. It can be used to read for any client, without upsetting them and I found even some of the darker cards are actually really beautifully done. There is a simplicity to the cards and they are very nice to use with people who may think traditional Tarot cards are a bit scary. The art is unique and a good shift from spookier tarot card interpretations. This deck does change up Wands to Rods, but all of the other suits are traditional RWS style. The cards are influenced with RWS, so for those that are branching away from the traditional starter decks, this is a nice transition without straying too far or making it too difficult to know what the cards mean or what they may be.
The card stock thicker, semi-gloss without being sticky, slick to shuffle, and allows you get a nice bend without cracking the card stock. The finish really helps make the cards shuffle easily without sticking or scratching. This card stock is very different, but it is enjoyable to have. I love the smooth and easy way this deck shuffles. It is a little shiny, but not so distracting that it does not photograph well. This also helps with having to wipe down the cards if necessary. The small size makes this portable. I really have been expanding my collection with tinier decks, as I find them so fun to pack up in my bag and take on the go.
As this is a Tarot deck, most of them do not include good or in-depth guidebook, so I was not expecting anything spectacular. This has an insert, but I have never really even read through it or used it. I just keep it in the tin. This may not be the easiest to just pick up for those who are not used to having to rely too heavily on intuition, but with practice and an open mind, it can quickly become a gentle favorite. Tarot is a fun adventure and study. If you are familiar and comfortable with Tarot, then this deck can be a breeze to work with. That being said, it is a beautiful deck with it's funky artwork and small size.
For anyone familiar with Tarot, this would be a lovely addition that brings beauty and comfortable images to the RWS traditional tarot. The colors are beautiful and there is a reason why this deck has still been in print for over 40 years - it is a timeless classic. I have enjoyed using it not only for clients, but also my own personal readings.
It is a wonderful vintage inspired Tarot deck with so many elements brought together in such a cohesive and elegant way. The images are clear yet, they convey mystery. It's an interesting effect, that I have not seen in other decks. This deck is perfect for those who love Vintage, art deco, and art nouveau or those who prefer more classic interpretations of Tarot.
All in all, I enjoyed it a lot and have found it to be wonderful to use with clients, without hesitation, if the messages will be well-received. It is comforting, supportive, and also allows for subtle breakthroughs to be made without showing off. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves vintage, gentle, and high quality decks.
Overall, I think this is a well-executed deck and will be one that I enjoy for many years to come. Simple, but straight to the point. I highly recommend it!
My overall opinion is that this deck is a 4 star choice.
Artwork - 5 stars
Card stock - 5 stars
Ease - 4 stars
Guidebook - 2 stars
I hope that you enjoyed my deck review, and also enjoy other deck reviews that I add to this site. I have a passion for exploring new decks and also finding various ways of connecting to my intuition. I appreciate you checking out my site and taking the time to read my review.
Happy Reading!
