Minchiate al Cigno - 97 cards, astrological and elemental trumps
Tarot did not always consist of 78 cards. The Minchiate system, popular in Northern Italy from the 16th century onwards, worked with 97 cards and expanded the symbolic framework with astrological and philosophical concepts absent from the standard system.
This deck is a reproduction of an edition from Bologna, dated around 1775. Lo Scarabeo published it as part of the Anima Antiqua series, a collection of historical reconstructions of rare tarot decks. The cards are printed with an antique finish that gives the cardstock the texture and appearance of aged paper.
What is different about 97 cards
The Minchiate system contains 41 trump cards instead of 22. The expansion consists of twelve zodiac cards, four elemental cards (fire, water, air, earth) and the three theological virtues (faith, hope, charity) alongside the four cardinal virtues.
These extra cards provide context that remains implicit in a standard deck. A zodiac card can point to a specific period or to the influence of someone with that sun sign. An elemental card names the energetic tone of the question. This makes readings more precise, but also more complex.
The iconography is typical Italian Renaissance: refined linework, muted colours, academic symbolism. There are no modern bright colour fields or psychological reinterpretation. It remains a historical document, visibly and tangibly.
How this deck feels in the hand
The cards measure 57 x 102 mm, which is narrower than standard tarot format. They feel sturdy thanks to the high-quality cardstock, but the antique finish also makes them sensitive to fingerprints. Shuffling is smooth, but this is not a deck you would pass through many hands daily.
There is no guidebook. Lo Scarabeo assumes that anyone buying this deck already has knowledge of tarot and is willing to study the Minchiate meanings independently. Standard spreads such as the Celtic Cross work, but the extra trumps yield more layers.
Lay out the zodiac cards separately if you have a question about timing. They can indicate specific months or name the astrological influence of people in your environment.
Who this system works for
This deck is designed for advanced readers and collectors. It requires willingness to learn a more extensive system than the standard 78 cards. Those already familiar with classic tarot and interested in astrological correspondence or historical tarot systems will find a rich instrument here.
This is not a beginner deck. The symbolism is compact, the cards contain no keywords, and the absence of a guidebook makes it unsuitable for those still exploring tarot.
Specifications
- Number of cards: 97
- Language: Multilingual (English, Italian, Spanish, French, German)
- ISBN: 9780738775883
- Publisher: Lo Scarabeo (Anima Antiqua series)
- Weight: 240 g
- Card dimensions: 57 x 102 mm
- Packaging: Flip-top box
- Finish: Antique finish on high-quality cardstock
Questions we often get
How does the Minchiate system differ from a classic tarot deck?
The Minchiate system contains 41 trump cards instead of 22. The additional cards are the twelve zodiac signs, four elements and the cardinal virtues. This changes the structure and depth of readings, particularly around timing and external influences.
Does this deck come with a guidebook?
No. Lo Scarabeo supplies this deck without a guidebook. It is published as a historical reproduction for readers already familiar with tarot who wish to study the Minchiate meanings independently.
