A Brief History Of Tarot

Introduction

The history of tarot is a tapestry woven with threads of mysticism, art, culture, and psychology. Originating in the 15th century as a card game, tarot has transformed over centuries into a tool for divination, self-reflection, and artistic expression. This article explores the evolution of tarot cards, focusing on their earliest versions and contemporary decks. Through detailed historical accounts and specific examples, we unravel how tarot has evolved and what makes each era's decks unique.

The Origins of Tarot Cards

Tarot cards first appeared in the 15th century in Europe, specifically in Italy. Initially, they were used for playing a game called Tarocchi, which bore no mystical or divinatory connotations. These early decks, known as "carte da trionfi," featured elaborate artwork and were often commissioned by wealthy families. The Visconti-Sforza tarot deck is one of the most well-known early examples, richly illustrated with figures representing virtues, vices, and classical themes (Decker, Depaulis, & Dummett, 2002).

Tarot in the Renaissance: A Game for Nobles

During the Renaissance, tarot cards were primarily a pastime for the nobility. The decks were not standardized, and their artistic themes varied widely. These cards were lavishly decorated and reflected the high cultural and artistic standards of the time. The game itself was similar to bridge and was enjoyed in courtly circles. It wasn't until the late 18th century that tarot began to acquire its mystical and divinatory associations (Farley, 2009).

Transformation into a Mystical Tool

The transformation of tarot from a mere game to a mystical tool began in the 18th century. Antoine Court de Gébelin, a French clergyman, published a study that claimed tarot cards were linked to ancient Egyptian mysticism. This marked the beginning of tarot's esoteric journey. De Gébelin's work spurred interest in the symbolic and mystical aspects of tarot, leading to its adoption by various occult traditions (Farley, 2009).

The Rider-Waite-Smith Deck: A Revolutionary Design

In the early 20th century, the Rider-Waite-Smith deck emerged as a groundbreaking development in tarot history. Designed by Arthur Edward Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, this deck introduced detailed illustrations for the Minor Arcana, making it more accessible for divination. Each card was imbued with rich symbolism, drawing from various esoteric traditions, including the Kabbalah and alchemy. The Rider-Waite-Smith deck remains one of the most popular and influential tarot decks today (Farley, 2009).

Contemporary Decks: Diversity and Innovation

The latter half of the 20th century and the 21st century have seen an explosion of creativity in tarot deck design. Artists and creators have drawn inspiration from a wide array of cultural, spiritual, and personal themes. Contemporary decks often reflect the diverse backgrounds and identities of their creators, incorporating elements from LGBTQ+ communities, various ethnic traditions, and modern psychological theories. Decks like the "Queer Tarot" and the "LGBTQ Tarot Cards" exemplify this trend, offering representation and relevance to a broader audience (Decker, Depaulis, & Dummett, 2002).

The Psychological and Archetypal Dimensions of Tarot

The work of Carl Jung significantly influenced the interpretation of tarot cards, emphasizing their psychological and archetypal dimensions. Jung saw tarot as a representation of universal archetypes and the collective unconscious. This perspective has been expanded by authors like Sallie Nichols, who explored the Jungian path through tarot in her book "Tarot and the Archetypal Journey" (Nichols, 1980).

Tarot as a Tool for Self-Reflection and Therapy

In contemporary times, tarot is increasingly used as a tool for self-reflection and therapy. Practitioners use tarot to explore personal issues, gain insights, and facilitate psychological healing. The symbolic nature of the cards allows individuals to project their inner thoughts and feelings, making tarot a valuable aid in therapeutic settings. Books like "Tarot and the Archetypal Journey" by Sallie Nichols delve into how tarot can support psychological exploration and growth (Nichols, 1980).

This is also the lens from which the Aspects collection of art prints are created from. Each image acts as a mirror for the reader, reflecting only what the viewer needs to see.

Conclusion

The history of tarot is a rich and multifaceted journey from Renaissance courts to modern spiritual practices. Each phase of its development reflects broader cultural, artistic, and psychological trends. Whether used for game-playing, divination, or self-reflection, tarot continues to captivate and inspire with its profound symbolism and adaptability. As tarot evolves, it remains a powerful tool for understanding the human experience, bridging the past and the present in a continuous dance of mystery and meaning.

FAQs

What were the earliest tarot cards used for?

The earliest tarot cards, originating in the 15th century, were used for playing a game called Tarocchi, which was popular among the Italian nobility.

How did tarot cards become associated with mysticism?

Tarot cards became associated with mysticism in the 18th century when Antoine Court de Gébelin published a study linking them to ancient Egyptian symbolism, sparking esoteric interest.

What is the significance of the Rider-Waite-Smith deck?

The Rider-Waite-Smith deck, created in the early 20th century, is significant for its detailed illustrations in the Minor Arcana, which made tarot more accessible for divination and established it as a standard for modern decks.

How has tarot evolved in contemporary times?

In contemporary times, tarot has evolved to include diverse and innovative decks that reflect various cultural, spiritual, and personal themes, making it relevant to a broader audience.

How does Carl Jung's work relate to tarot?

Carl Jung's work relates to tarot through his concept of archetypes and the collective unconscious. He viewed tarot as a representation of universal symbols that reflect the human psyche.

Can tarot be used for therapy?

Yes, tarot can be used for therapy as a tool for self-reflection and psychological exploration, helping individuals gain insights into their personal issues and facilitating healing.

References

• Decker, R., Depaulis, T., & Dummett, M. (2002). The History of the Occult Tarot. Retrieved from Google Books.
• Farley, H. (2009). A Cultural History of Tarot: From Entertainment to Esotericism. Retrieved from Google Books.
• Nichols, S. (1980). Tarot and the Archetypal Journey: The Jungian Path from Darkness to Light. Retrieved from Google Books.