Design and Artwork
The Hermetic Tarot by Godfrey Dowson is a visually stunning black and white deck. Its intricate detailing and unique artistic style, inspired by the esoteric Tarot deck of Mathers from the Order of the Golden Dawn, make it a masterpiece in tarot design. The deck's monochromatic scheme enhances its mysterious and intense aesthetic.
Symbolism and Themes
This deck delves deep into alchemical and astrological symbolism, aligning with the teachings of the Golden Dawn. Each card is rich in elemental and astrological symbols, with specific focus on Western astrology as interpreted by the Golden Dawn and the Qabalah. The Major Arcana cards display corresponding Hebrew letters, while the court cards include alchemical symbols related to their elemental associations, like the Knight of Swords representing Fire on Air.
User Experience
Designed primarily for spiritual and divinatory work, the Hermetic Tarot is an excellent tool for personal rituals, meditation, and ceremonies. Its similarity in structure to the Rider-Waite-Smith deck makes it user-friendly, yet it offers profound depth for those experienced with the Thoth Tarot. However, its intricate symbolism might be less suited for mundane inquiries, excelling instead in spiritual and introspective readings.
About the Author
Godfrey Dowson, the creator of the Hermetic Tarot, is celebrated for his deep understanding and integration of Golden Dawn principles into this deck. His expertise in elemental dignities, Western astrology, and Qabalah is evident in every card. Dowson's work is not just artistic; it is a scholarly endeavor that encourages tarot practitioners to deepen their metaphysical studies.
- 78-card deck in detailed black and white artwork
- Deep symbolic references to alchemy, astrology, and the Qabalah
- Aligned with Golden Dawn interpretations and symbolism
- Non-reversible card backs featuring the Hermetic Rose and hexagrams
- Ideal for spiritual reflection, meditation, and advanced tarot studies
- Includes a booklet with meanings and interpretations