Silver Witchcraft Tarot - Rider-Waite with moonlight and pagan layers
Most decks choose. This one combines. The Silver Witchcraft Tarot keeps the Rider-Waite-Smith structure intact but adds an ethereal layer of moonlight, natural cycles and pagan symbolism.
Franco Rivolli illustrates all 78 cards with deep tones and an atmosphere that immediately places you in a nocturnal setting. Barbara Moore writes the text. Her 160-page guidebook bridges traditional meanings and the specific focus on moon and nature.
What you see on the cards
The imagery is recognizable if you know Rider-Waite. The Fool, the Magician, the Hanged Man: they are all there, in their familiar poses. But Rivolli works with a color palette drawn mainly from deep blue, silver and purple. Each image appears lit by moon rather than sun.
That difference in light changes the mood. Where a classic Rider-Waite deck often feels bright and direct, this deck feels contemplative and nocturnal. The cards invite stillness.
The symbolism is expanded with references to the sabbats, the eight seasonal festivals from pagan tradition. The moon phases also appear, subtle but recognizable to those who work with them.
How the guidebook works
Barbara Moore describes each card in the guidebook. She starts with the traditional meaning and adds the layer of natural magic. What does the Sun mean during a Full Moon? How do you read the Tower in relation to Samhain?
The text is clear and practical. Moore assumes you know the Rider-Waite structure, or are willing to learn it. Instructions for absolute beginners are not included, but there is enough context to place the symbolism.
Draw a card at each moon phase and leave it on your altar for a week. That rhythm matches the pace of this deck.
Who this deck works for
This deck is designed for those who already work with tarot and know Rider-Waite meanings. It adds a layer, it replaces nothing. If you want to enrich your readings with attention to seasons, moon phases or pagan themes, this deck connects seamlessly.
The format is standard (66 x 120 mm) and the finish is smooth. The cards shuffle easily, which makes daily use straightforward.
About Barbara Moore and Franco Rivolli
Barbara Moore has been writing about tarot for more than twenty years. She has accompanied dozens of decks with texts that are accessible without becoming superficial. Her strength lies in translating symbolism into usable insights.
Franco Rivolli illustrates with a preference for deep colors and dreamlike compositions. His work for this deck ensures the cards remain recognizable but acquire their own mood.
Specifications
- Author: Barbara Moore
- Illustrator: Franco Rivolli
- Number of cards: 78
- Guidebook: 160 pages
- Card dimensions: 66 x 120 mm
- Language: English
- Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide
- ISBN: 9780738762647
Questions we often get
How does this deck differ from a standard Rider-Waite deck?
The structure and poses are the same. The difference lies in the atmosphere and symbolism. This deck adds moon phases, sabbats and a nocturnal aesthetic. Traditional meanings remain but receive a pagan context.
Can I use this deck if I am just starting with tarot?
That depends. If you are willing to learn the Rider-Waite structure, this deck can help you do that. The guidebook explains the cards but assumes you have some foundation or want to build one. For absolute beginners with no interest in pagan symbolism, a classic Rider-Waite deck might be more direct.