Publisher's Synopsis
Tarot Emblemata is a magical and mystical tarot deck of Renaissance emblems with their original Latin and vernacular mottos.
Descended from Greek, Roman, and Egyptian antiquity, ancient mythology, and medieval bestiaries, Renaissance emblems are intimate illustrations; their accompanying mottos allegorically and symbolically express sentiments, concepts, societal concerns, and parables. Both secular and religious, these emblems crystallize virtue or vice and cover every possible sphere of early modern knowledge: ethics, natural philosophy, politics, science, religion, love, war, and everyday life. Based on the 1551 book of emblems by Claude Paradin, among the many emblems this deck portrays are plumes, helmets, swords, gemstone rings, coins, wands, clouds, wreaths, flowers, animals, trees, and Renaissance court and country. The cards present a visual fusion of the arts of illustration and writing in a dynamic interplay between ancient and iconic images, alongside their allegorical and oracular meanings. The emblems also act as talismans. The accompanying 192-page guidebook presents tarot interpretations and elucidations on the symbolism of the emblems. The charm of these emblems is that they become activated by the user's intention. By tapping into the field of subtle energies surrounding these mystical, metaphysical, and occult illustrations, relevant divinatory results and inspiring new perspectives follow, catalyzing self-knowledge and helping the reader expand on their path of embodiment, spiritual gnosis, inspired destiny, and empowerment. Tarot Emblemata is an accessible deck for beginners and those generally familiar with the Rider-Waite-Smith system, while more experienced readers will enjoy a new and refreshing take on the cards.
