Are you a fan of the OG 1909 Rider-Waite Smith tarot deck? If you are, you might enjoy the Weiser Tarot, designed to be a fresh and vibrant reimagining of the original classic deck.
The Weiser Tarot, released in 2022, brings a modern touch to the timeless imagery of the original tarot. Each card features newly repainted artwork, maintaining Pamela Colman Smith’s original line art while introducing a fresh, flowing aesthetic. This blend of old and new gives the deck a vibrant yet nostalgic feel.
As you can see from the two images above, the artwork in The Weiser Tarot goes beyond the standard depictions found in the original deck. By incorporating a diverse range of skin colors and hair shades, the deck challenges stereotypes and opens up possibilities for broader interpretations. This intentional choice not only reflects the multicultural nature of our society but also allows readers to see themselves represented in the cards, fostering a deeper connection to the readings.
The deck preserves Smith’s original line work but adds a new watercolor effect, creating a fresh and dynamic visual experience. Each suit is color-coded for easy identification: orange for Wands, blue for Cups, purple for Swords, and green for Pentacles. This color-coding, combined with the Hebrew and astrological signs on the cards, adds depth and clarity to the symbolism of the Major Arcana.
The deck also integrates Hebrew and astrological correspondences into the Major Arcana, adding rich layers of symbolism for those interested in Kabbalah and astrology. This makes the Weiser Tarot not just a tool for divination, but also a gateway to deeper esoteric knowledge.
Accompanying the deck is a 55-page guidebook, which provides insights into the deck’s inspiration, the artistic process behind its creation, and a brief history of tarot. Notably, the guidebook addresses the lack of diversity in the original deck and suggests that Pamela Colman Smith may have intentionally included non-binary representations in her artwork.
The Weiser Tarot measures 12cm by 7cm, with a total deck weight of 232.2g. Individual cards weigh between 2.92g and 3.02g, with a thickness ranging from 0.39mm to 0.41mm, most cards being around 0.40mm. Despite being heavier than some other decks, such as the Smith-Waite Tarot Centennial Edition, the Weiser Tarot offers greater flexibility.
The Weiser Tarot features a smooth matte finish, which enhances the visual appeal of the cards. However, some users may find the cardstock stiff and the edges sharp during shuffling. The card backs are adorned with a beautiful blue watercolor background featuring an intricate X-shaped design. While visually stunning, the deck’s stiffness and sharp edges might make it cumbersome to shuffle, potentially causing discomfort for some users.
The Weiser Tarot offers a creative and vibrant reimagining of the classic Rider-Waite-Smith deck. Its rich artwork and added layers of symbolism make it a unique addition to any tarot collection. However, the cardstock and shuffling experience may not meet everyone’s expectations. Some might appreciate the deck’s artistic concept and bright colors, while others might find it less enjoyable to handle during readings.
Leave a Reply