The other week, while in London to collect my passport at the Swedish Embassy, I stopped by the famous Atlantis Book Shop. Since it was my birthday week, I treated myself to two new Tarot decks. One of them was The Folklore Tarot by Rowan Ortins, published by U.S. Games Systems Inc. I instantly fell in love with the artwork on the box.
I wasn’t put off by the fact that the number cards are non-scenic pips but rather illustrated with intricate floral patterns. As I came to find out on my train journey back to the North, this deck offers the reader a rich tapestry of cultural narratives to explore. There is so much to take in that I feel I might have been overwhelmed if the number cards had been scenic too.
You can see my left hand holding the box on the train on the way home in the picture below:
Deck Specifications
Each of the 78 cards measures 2.75” x 4.75”, making them a comfortable standard tarot size for shuffling and handling. The cards are printed on silky matte black cardstock, which not only provides a luxurious feel but also enhances durability. In other words, the black won’t get scraped off. This is the equivalent of buying black candles that are black all the way through rather than just dyed black on the surface. The black edges add a sleek and cohesive touch to the deck’s overall aesthetic.
Cardstock Quality
The flexible nature of the cards ensures smooth handling during readings, enhancing the overall experience. The cardstock feels durable which comes as no surprise. I have yet to come across a flimsy deck produced by U.S. Games.
Guidebook
Accompanying the deck is a 136-page illustrated guidebook that delves into the myths, legends, alchemical symbols, and astrological correspondences associated with each card. This comprehensive resource provides a deeper understanding of the deck’s rich symbolism. It also includes a Hero’s Journey-style 6-card Folklore Tarot Spread which looks fab but that I have yet to try.
While the astrological correspondences don’t follow the system I usually work with, I don’t find the symbols used intrusive when reading with the cards.
Artwork and Design
The visual appeal of the Folkore Tarot is stunning. The combination of spot gloss lamination and black cardstock results in vibrant pops of colour that make the symbolism come alive.
As mentioned above each pip card is adorned with intricate floral elements. The court cards and Major Arcana, on the other hand, showcase characters from world mythology. I had heard of many but far from all the characters included so I’m enjoying learning more about our rich, global folkloric heritage from far-flung places such as Japan.
The card backs are reversible and beautifully decorated with two owls and a triple-moon pattern.
Video Flip-Through to Music
Folklore Tarot Deck Interview
1. Describe yourself in three words or less. Ace of Swords
FT: Fearless truth-teller!
2. How would your best friend describe you in three words or less? King of Wands (Jinn)
FT: Wise and inspiring
3. What gifts do you bring? The Star
FT: Hope, clarity and friendship
4. What do you expect in return? Ace of Wands
FT: That you act on the guidance.
5. How can you help me serve? Queen of Pentacles (Kamadhenu)
FT: I provide practical guidance that helps you stay grounded.
6. Is there anything else you would like to tell me about yourself? Page of Pentacles (Pixiu)
FT: There isn’t any area of life in Earth School that you are truly curious about that I can’t help you dive deeper into!
Me: Wow, that’s awesome! I look forward to exploring many and diverse topics with you! Thank you so much.
FT: You’re welcome!
Conclusion
The Folklore Tarot by Rowan Ortins is a beautiful Tarot deck that seamlessly blends mythological narratives with traditional tarot symbolism. Its quality, artistry, and insightful guidebook make it a great deck for the more seasoned reader who has already mastered Minor Arcana card meanings or the beginner reader who is happy to rely on the combination of Tarot Numerology and elemental correspondences for meanings.
Check out my other Tarot and Oracle Deck Reviews!
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