The Minchiate Tarot

Publishing Details

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Physical Properties

Description

The Minchiate is one of the most unique decks ever to emerge from the centuries old Tarot tradition. In the first modern presentation of this divinatory system, artist and writer Brian Williams explains the allegorical, esoteric and symbolic meanings of this expanded deck that, not only includes cards for each of the astrological signs, but also for the four elements and several additional figures in the major arcana. Although those familiar with the traditional Tarot will recognise many of the cards of the Minchiate, even Tarot aficionados will be surprised and delighted by the many striking differences, such as the knights who are now transformed into mythical beasts or the Chariot card on which the armoured warrior has been replaced by a peaceful maiden. Brian Williams' insightful interpretations of the cards, based on his extensive knowledge of the Tarot and Italian history, enable readers to use this deck as a tool for profound self-exploration and transformation. One of the most popular Italian Tarots, the Minchiate served as the basis for many of the famous decks before fading into obscurity during the nineteenth century. Now this important Tarot, reformulated with the author's extensive commentary and subtle interpretations of the original art, is finally again available for modern readers and devotees of the Tarot.

Reviews

"A superb resource for Renaissance symbols and deepening of the Tarot experience." * Napra Review *
"A deck for the serious aficionado.Long faded into obscurity until now, it offers a new survey of an ancient tradition." * New Age Retailer, May/June 2000 *
"The art is excellent. The book for this deck is one of the best books I have seen written for a deck. This deck is highly recommended." * Michele Jackson, www.ArtofTarot.com *
"Williams has taken the ancient Minchiate designs and re-visioned them for our own time with incomparable grace and delicacy. This is the artist's finest work to date, showing a master's fluidity with both concept and execution. The Minchiate Tarot reaches back to a time when Tarot was more diverse, and designers made dramatic experiements in the symbolic system. The Minchiate was waiting to be heard; thanks to the artistic talents of Brian Williams, it now sings to us with clarity and profundity across the span of centuries." * Tom Tadfor Little, Wellspring *
Brian Williams has done a great service by reclaiming the allegory-rich Minchiate deck for the modern world. All Tarot readers will benefit from his detailed explication of Renaissance symbols and iconography. His insights apply to all Tarot decks and will deepen readings. This exquisite deck by a consummate artist is sure to become a classic. * Mary Greer, author of Tarot for Your Self *
"A wonderful addition to Tarot knowledge and art. The book alone is a treasure, with its hundreds of Renaissance illustrations and its witty and detailed text. Brian Williams is a rare combination of talents--a superb artist, a genuine scholar, and a man with a true sense of the inner mysteries of symbolic images. " * Rachel Pollack, author of The Complete Illustrated Guide to Tarot *

Author Bio

Brian Williams has written and illustrated numerous Tarot decks, among which areThe Renaissance Tarot, The PoMo (Postmodern) Tarot, and, along with artist Michael Goepferd, The Light and Shadow Tarot.