Tarot of Druids - Celtic symbolism with vivid nature scenes
Some tarot decks you pick up and put down again. Others, like this one, keep you a bit longer because every card has something to say. The Tarot of Druids brings the world of the ancient Celtic priests to life through illustrations filled with trees, animals and rituals.
Published by Lo Scarabeo and designed by Bepi Vigna, an Italian writer who often works with esoteric themes. He chose two illustrators, Severino Baraldi and Antonio Lupatelli, who shaped the cards together. The result is a deck that leans heavily on natural harmony and human interaction with the elements.
What you see on the cards
The imagery is narrative. No abstract symbols, but scenes where people stand among oaks, animals play a role and seasons are visible. The colours are vivid without being loud: plenty of green, earthy tones, occasional red or blue.
The structure follows the classic 78 cards, but the symbolism departs from Rider-Waite. Instead of universal archetypes this deck opts for Celtic references. That makes it less predictable if you are used to standard RWS interpretations.
The cards measure 66 x 120 mm, a standard format for Lo Scarabeo. The cardstock is sturdy enough to shuffle regularly without quick damage. The finish is matte, which feels more pleasant than gloss if you work with the cards often.
How this deck works in practice
The scenes invite you to form a story. That makes the deck accessible for beginners who are still learning to interpret without memorising fixed meanings. At the same time it offers enough depth for those with experience looking for a different angle.
The guidebook is multilingual and contains brief descriptions for each card. No extensive analyses, but enough to get you started. The texts are descriptive, not prescriptive.
Lay the cards outside when the weather allows. The natural setting strengthens the atmosphere this deck tries to convey.
About Bepi Vigna, Severino Baraldi and Antonio Lupatelli
Bepi Vigna is an Italian author with several tarot and oracle projects to his name. His work often revolves around mythology and symbolism from different cultures.
Severino Baraldi and Antonio Lupatelli are both illustrators with experience in esoteric publications. Their style for this deck is figurative and clear, with attention to detail without becoming overloaded.
Specifications
- Number of cards: 78
- Dimensions: 66 x 120 mm
- Material: sturdy cardstock, matte finish
- Language: multilingual, including English
- Publisher: Lo Scarabeo
- ISBN: 9788883953538
- Author: Bepi Vigna
- Illustrators: Severino Baraldi, Antonio Lupatelli
Questions we often get
Does this deck follow Rider-Waite symbolism?
No. The structure is the same, 78 cards divided across Major and Minor Arcana, but the symbolism is Celtic and departs from standard RWS meanings. You will need to learn the cards anew.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes. The scenes are clear enough to work with intuitively, and the guidebook provides sufficient guidance to start. You do not need prior knowledge of Celtic traditions.