The Chinese Tarot

Design and Artwork

The Chinese Tarot Deck, crafted by Jui Guoliang and Stuart R. Kaplan, is a beautiful fusion of traditional Chinese artwork and tarot symbolism. Artist Jui Guoliang's elegant ink and watercolor designs incorporate rich colors and clear visual storytelling. The deck reflects archetypal symbols from Ancient Chinese literature, legend, and philosophy, with Major Arcana cards featuring influential figures like Confucius, Kuan Yin, and Chang Tao Ling. The Minor Arcana cards continue this theme, drawing upon Chinese history to enrich their symbolism.

Symbolism and Themes

This tarot deck uniquely integrates Chinese cultural and historical elements into the traditional tarot framework. The inclusion of Chinese text on some cards adds an authentic touch, offering insights into the symbolism for those who can read the language. Some cards, such as Major XII Hanging Ghost and Major V Heavenly Master, provide distinct interpretations compared to their traditional Rider-Waite-Smith counterparts, inviting users to explore the richness of Chinese culture and its perspective on these archetypes.

User Experience

The deck's artwork is praised for its compelling and intricate design, encouraging users to engage deeply with the visuals. The glossy finish of the cards and their quality make for a pleasant tactile experience. The guidebook, while simple, offers valuable insights, especially for those looking to step outside the Rider-Waite-Smith interpretation system. Users have found the deck to be durable, easy to shuffle, and a favorite for its unique aesthetic and cultural depth.

About the Authors

Jui Guoliang, an American-Chinese artist born in 1936, brings his expertise in traditional Chinese art to this deck, creating a visually stunning tarot experience. Stuart R. Kaplan, co-author of the accompanying booklet, provides descriptions and meanings for each card, enhancing the user's understanding of the deck's rich cultural context. Together, they have created a tarot deck that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply rooted in Chinese heritage and wisdom.

• Artistic Style: Traditional Chinese ink and watercolor illustrations
• Key Themes: Integration of Chinese culture, history, and philosophical concepts
• Target Audience: Tarot enthusiasts interested in cultural diversity and unique artistic interpretations
• Special Features: Richly illustrated cards, guidebook with detailed symbolism and meanings
• Author Background: Jui Guoliang - American-Chinese artist; Stuart R. Kaplan - tarot expert and author