Animal Totem Tarot – The Primal Wisdom of Animals, Translated into Tarot
About this Deck
The Animal Totem Tarot invites you to step out of the urban landscape and back into the wild heart of nature. Created by renowned tarot expert Leeza Robertson and brought to life through the vivid illustrations of Eugene Smith, this 78-card deck is a bridge between human intuition and the raw, unyielding wisdom of the animal kingdom. It is more than just a deck; it is a spiritual toolkit designed to help you see the world through the eyes of the creatures who share our planet—as teachers, allies, and mirrors of our own souls.
Visually, the deck is a masterpiece of naturalism and mysticism. The borderless design allows the rich, colorful scenes to bleed to the very edge of the card, creating an immersive experience that pulls the reader directly into the animal's environment. The vibe is grounding yet profound, offering a sense of sanctuary and ancient knowledge.
Symbolism and Themes
While the deck remains faithfully rooted in the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith structure, it reinterprets the archetypes through the lens of natural behavior. The 22 Major Arcana represent the grand cycles of life, while the 56 Minor Arcana are divided into the classic suits of Swords, Wands, Cups, and Pentacles. However, instead of imposing human characteristics onto animals, this deck celebrates the animals as they truly are.
Themes of survival, instinct, protection, and harmony resonate throughout the suits. Whether it is the soaring perspective of an eagle or the quiet persistence of a turtle, each card encourages you to align your rhythm with that of the natural world, finding balance through the inherent strength of the wild.
The Creators
Leeza Robertson
Leeza is an internationally recognized tarot author and spiritual coach. Known for her accessible yet deeply insightful writing style, she specializes in bridging the gap between ancient symbolism and modern life, making complex spiritual concepts easy to integrate into daily practice.
Eugene Smith
Eugene is a master illustrator whose work focuses on the intricate details of the natural world. His ability to capture the specific energy, ecosystem, and "personality" of each animal ensures that every card feels alive and authentic, providing a rich tapestry for intuitive exploration.
Practical Use
The Animal Totem Tarot is designed for deep, reflective readings. The cards are printed on high-quality, sturdy cardstock with a smooth finish that makes shuffling a tactile pleasure. The set includes an expansive 347-page guidebook that provides not just interpretations, but stories and "messages" from the animals themselves, helping you build a personal relationship with the deck.
"When drawing a card, try to imagine the physical environment of the animal pictured. Feeling the heat of the sun or the chill of the water helps you connect more deeply with the card’s energetic message."
Features
- Number of cards: 78
- Language: English
- ISBN: 9780738743486
- Publisher: Llewellyn Publications
- Weight: 600 g
- Dimensions: 70 x 120 mm
Expert FAQ
Is this deck suitable for someone who has never used Tarot before?
Absolutely. While the imagery is unique, it follows the traditional Rider-Waite system. The exceptionally detailed 347-page guidebook provides a comprehensive foundation for beginners to learn both tarot and animal symbolism simultaneously.
How does the "animal totem" aspect differ from standard animal tarot decks?
Many decks use animals as stand-ins for human figures. This deck focuses on the actual nature and instincts of the animals within their own ecosystems, offering a more primal and authentic "totem" experience that connects you to the earth.
What is the finish of the cards like?
The cards feature a smooth, matte-like finish that prevents glare during readings and provides a professional feel. The lack of borders makes the artwork feel expansive and modern.
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