The Aquarian Tarot Deck by David Paladini is one of our favorites here at The Carnelian Cauldron. The gorgeous illustrations have such a fun retro vibe that pulls you into the Rider-Waite tradition is a unique way.
First introduced in 1970, the compelling art deco imagery in this now-classic tarot deck brought medieval tarot symbolism into the modern Aquarian age. Aquarian Tarot has remained a bestseller throughout the four decades it has been in print and still resonates today with those seeking transformation.
- 8 page booklet included.
- 78 cards with instructional booklet.
- Cards measure 4.625” x 3”
Check out this amazing description by the awesome Brigit Esselmont of Biddy Tarot:
"In recent years, there have been hundreds of new Tarot decks coming onto the market and reshaping the way we see Tarot. We may think we’re all on the leading edge now, but did you know that nearly half a century ago, there was one deck that really turned the tables on how Tarot cards were seen? That deck is the Aquarian Tarot deck – one of the most popular decks from the 1970s. This beautiful deck combines Art Deco and Art Nouveau imagery with medieval depictions to create a unique aesthetic. The Aquarian Tarot was seen as cutting-edge during its release in 1970, and it has become a classic and trusted Tarot deck many decades later, especially as we enter the Aquarian Age.
You’ll notice that the images on the Aquarian Tarot cards seem to be zoomed in, when compared to traditional decks like the Rider Waite. Fittingly, the symbolism demands a closer look as it isn’t always apparent. For example, the The Star card appears to be a huge departure from what you’d see in the Rider-Waite. However, notice the bird and the eight pointed star. Because of this, the Aquarian Tarot provides a more intimate feeling than what you find in other decks.
In many cases, the characters in the Major Arcana are so close that they seem to mirror the reader’s intent gaze. When you look at the characters’ expressions, they seem stone-faced and introspective…which can be pretty frustrating during a Tarot reading! But consider what they reflect. They are lost in thought when the solution or answer lies in their surroundings. Palladini said that the cards “explore man’s collective unconscious and its bearing on one’s personal life and growth.“ Indeed, some of the people in the cards appear to be oblivious to what’s going on around them.
If you have any Art Deco or Art Nouveau lovers in your life, then this is the deck for them. We can all agree that imagery plays not only an important role in how we understand a Tarot deck but also in how we connect to it. While many see the Aquarian Tarot deck and immediately point to the Art Deco and Art Nouveau influence, few acknowledge that many of the colors are distinctly from the 1970s, when the deck was released. The Aquarian Tarot will also resonate with people who vividly experienced in the late 60s and early 70s or anyone who feels connected to that era. The accompanying book to the Aquarian Tarot deck says that, “A proper reading of the cards can help one gain perspective on personal questions and reorder the priorities in his life.” This is definitely a deck that is perfect for doing a Tarot reading for yourself."
