The New Palladini Tarot Deck

Design and Artwork

The New Palladini Tarot Deck, created by David Palladini, showcases a harmonious blend of medieval, Egyptian, Renaissance, and modern artistic styles. This unique fusion results in a bold, original aesthetic, characterized by clear and vibrant artwork. The deck features fully-realized pictorial scenes for both the Minor and Major Arcana, with a notable emphasis on color symbolism. Particularly striking are the night sky backgrounds in the suit of Pentacles, adding a contemplative depth to the imagery.

Symbolism and Themes

Palladini's tarot deck stands out for its thoughtful integration of various historical and cultural elements into its design. The color choices are not just aesthetically pleasing but also contribute significantly to the symbolism within each card. The recurring night themes in many suits introduce a unique and meditative aspect to the deck's overall ambiance, inviting introspection and deeper understanding.

User Experience

Users appreciate the New Palladini Tarot for its ease of use and readability, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned tarot enthusiasts. The deck's cards, with their almost matte finish and light lamination, are praised for their quality and comfortable handling. Its simplicity, combined with its adherence to traditional Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) basics, yet with a distinct medieval touch, enhances the user's reading experience. The deck's slightly unusual character representations and the quality of the card stock are also noted positively by its users.

About the Author

David Palladini (April 1, 1946 – March 13, 2019) was an American illustrator renowned for his Aquarian Tarot deck and the New Palladini Tarot. Born in Italy and raised in America, his artistic style reflects his diverse cultural background, reminiscent of Art Nouveau and Art Deco. A Pratt Institute alumnus, Palladini's career spanned various creative realms, including book illustration and photography. His memoir, "The Journal of an Artist," and "Painting the Soul: The Tarot Art of David Palladini," co-authored with Anastasia Haysler, offer insights into his artistic journey and tarot creation process.