Inversion Tarot Tin: A Noir-Inspired Twist on the Marseille Tradition
The Inversion Tarot Tin offers a visually stunning tribute to the mid-century artwork of Paul Mathison. Originally created for the Rolla Nordic Tarot in 1960, these images have been reimagined through a modern lens. By inverting the color palette and refining the intricate details, this deck breathes new life into the centuries-old Marseille tradition, offering a sleek, monochromatic aesthetic that feels both vintage and avant-garde.
About this Deck
The essence of the Inversion Tarot lies in its name: it takes the familiar and turns it inside out. Based on the 1960s designs of Paul Mathison, this deck follows the structural logic of the Tarot de Marseille but presents it with a striking, contemporary "vibe." The updated images have been inverted and polished with new decorative elements, resulting in a deck that feels sophisticated, mysterious, and incredibly clear in its symbolism.
Symbolism and Themes
Traditional Marseille imagery is often characterized by primary colors, but the Inversion Tarot strips away the distraction of color to focus on the raw power of line and form. The inverted black-and-white designs highlight often-overlooked details, encouraging the reader to look "behind" the standard interpretations. This minimalist approach emphasizes the structural geometry of the cards, making it an excellent tool for those who want to master the Marseille system’s unique patterns and themes of light and shadow.
The Creators
Jody Boginski Barbessi
A talented artist and designer, Jody Boginski Barbessi has a knack for revitalizing vintage concepts for the modern seeker. Her work on the Inversion Tarot demonstrates a deep respect for the original illustrations by Paul Mathison, while her refinements ensure the deck meets the high standards of contemporary collectors and practitioners.
Practical Use
Housed in a durable, decorative metal tin, this deck is designed for the seeker on the move. Its compact, pocket-sized format makes it perfect for travel or discreet readings, while the 64-page instruction booklet provides a solid foundation for understanding the Marseille system. The cards are sturdy and provide a smooth shuffle, making them ideal for daily use.
To truly connect with the Inversion Tarot, try performing a reading by candlelight. The high-contrast black and white imagery "pops" under low light, helping you focus on the symbols without the distraction of a full color spectrum.
Features
- Number of cards: 78
- Language: English
- ISBN: 9781572819948
- Publisher: U.S. Games Systems, Inc.
- Weight: 385 g
- Dimensions: 55 x 98 mm
Expert FAQ
Is the Inversion Tarot suitable for beginners?
Yes. While it follows the Marseille tradition (which features "pip" style Minor Arcana), the accompanying 64-page booklet provides clear instructions and two specific tarot spreads to help newcomers navigate the system with confidence.
What makes the Marseille system different from Rider-Waite-Smith?
The Marseille system is one of the oldest tarot structures. Unlike the Rider-Waite-Smith, the Minor Arcana (numbered cards) focus on arrangements of the suit symbols rather than illustrated scenic scenes, allowing for a more mathematical and intuitive approach to reading.
How durable is the packaging?
The deck comes in a high-quality metal tin (approximately 70 x 105 mm). This provides superior protection compared to standard cardboard tuck boxes, ensuring your cards remain in pristine condition even if you carry them in a bag or pocket every day.
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