Tarots of the Origins
by:  Lo Scarabeo 

ISBN 0-7387-0025-8
Price $19.95

I first discovered this deck by way of the Comparative Tarot, which features four different decks on each card, including the Tarot of the Origins.  I was intrigued by the very Earth and visceral drawings on the deck, so I decided to check it out on its own.

Although the deck is done by my (fast becoming) arch enemy, Lo Scarabeo, I took a chance and I was quite impressed.  The book is the standard minimized, inadequate presentation (to call it Tarot Cliff Notes would be an insult to Cliff), but ironically, in this case, it really works.  Brevity is the hallmark of this deck as the "origins" suggest.  The cards mean very simple and specific things as opposed to the expansive array of interpretations inherent in most decks.

Giving these cards very simple interpretations such as "The hunt," Another point of view" or "A man of the past" is extremely befitting to this deck that is not given to verbosity or overwork.  It means what it means and if I had created the deck, a very simple one or two word meaning would be inscribed on the bottom of each card.  (I may write them in myself)  The cards are very direct and to the point and I hold a high appreciation for their integral strength and captivating images.

5 pents out of 5

Reviews by Delena Rasbold