Universal Tarot by Lo Scarabeo at House of Tarot

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Universal Tarot by Lo Scarabeo

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Drawn according to the instructions of the famous occultist Arthur E. Waite, artist Roberto De Angelis provides the student of Tarot with a useful working deck, appropriate for divination and study. Containing all the elements of traditional Tarot arranged in new and interesting compositions, this deck is perfect for the serious apprentice as well as the seasoned reader. Readers will recognize familiar scenes while being delighted by De Angelis' uncluttered adaptations and sophisticated use of color. Published by Lo Scarabeo. The boxed deck includes 78 full color cards and an instruction booklet. ISBN: 0-7387-0007-X.

Price: $19.99

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Reviews ...

Submitted By: Susan on 01/16/2006
Universal Tarots
by Roberto De Angelis

At first blush the Universal Tarots, by Roberto De Angelis, appears to be yet another re-coloring of the omni-present Rider-Waite Deck, which was originally drawn by Pamela ‘Pixie’ Smith. Closer inspection, however, reveals what a true jewel this offering from the Italian publisher, Lo Scarabeo, is. This is not simply another re-colored version of that deservedly famous deck, but rather, the Universal Tarots is a reinterpretation of Waite’s esoteric writings. Thus, unlike so many Waite-Smith inspired Tarot decks that have come before it, the Universal Tarots has its very own personality and way of approaching each card’s well-known image. In the instances where the card’s layout is the same as that found in one of the Waite-Smith decks, one finds a shift in terms of the perspective taken. Further, there is a very welcome fluidity found in the Universal Tarot’s art.

For instance, the Universal Tarots’ Lovers card, while remaining true to the original Waite-Smith composition, shifts the focus away from the original’s fiery haired angel and instead highlights the two lovers through the use of color. While all 10 Pentacles are featured in the 10 of Pentacles card, the overall composition of the card is simplified and the Pentacles no longer form the familiar Tree of Life pattern found on the Waite-Smith card. More generally, the facial features of the figures in the Universal Tarots are finer and more expressive. The increased detail can help provide fresh insights when reading with the deck.

Though I have long held the symbolism found in Waite-Smith decks in high regard, I have just never resonated with their artwork. In fairness, Pixie Smith drew the images as pen and ink drawings. Her drawings were later colored in, often rather badly, I think, by others. This accounts for so many re-colored Waite-Smith decks currently on the market. There have been numerous attempts to “get it right”.

In the Universal Tarots, the watercolor art is flowing and has a unified feel. Its subtle color work is enhanced and highlighted with expressive pen and ink drawings flourished with exquisite detail. The deck’s creator, Roberto De Angelis, is well known for his artwork on the Nathan Never Comics, and this deck’s artwork does have a comic book feel to it. An Italian comic book, I hasten to add!

The Universal Tarots card backs contain an attractive dark blue and white reversible pattern. The cards measure 4 3/4” X 2 1/2”. A multi language deck, six languages are featured on the face of each card and the omnipresent little white book that accompanies the Universal Tarots is written in five languages. As one expects from Lo Scarabeo, quality of the deck’s cardstock is superb.

So, who might be interested in acquiring the Universal Tarots? It is a great choice for anyone new to Tarot as Tarot books using Waite-Smith symbolism work perfectly with this deck. It will also likely hold an appeal to those who already love and work with any of the Waite-Smith decks as a means of looking at familiar, beloved images from a new and slightly altered perspective. Lastly, the Universal Tarots is a good choice for people like me who are inspired by the symbolism found in the myriad Waite-Smith decks available on the marketplace, but have been unable to connect with the rather flat style of artwork those decks generally contain.

A word of warning is warranted here, I think. The deck’s little white book contains around eleven pages of information per language that even includes an abbreviated history of Tarot! Those needing instruction will do well to access a good beginners book to aid them with their studies.

5 of 5 Stars!

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