Universal Celtic Tarot - Mini - Celtic mythology in pocket format
Mini decks are often scaled-down versions of a standard format. Not this one. The Universal Celtic Tarot - Mini was designed from the start as a compact deck, with borderless cards that strengthen the visual language rather than shrink it.
Floreana Nativo designed the system, Cristina Scagliotti illustrated. Together they created a deck that approaches Celtic mythology through dreamlike landscapes, natural forces and figures from the world of the Tuatha Dé Danann. The cards do not follow a strict Rider-Waite layout, which leaves room for a more intuitive interpretation.
What you see on the cards
Deep green tones dominate, complemented by earthy browns and occasional touches of gold. The borderless images run all the way to the edge, giving the cards an open, flowing character.
The figures are inspired by Celtic folklore: druids, nature spirits, mythical beings. The backgrounds show forests, lakes, stone circles and landscapes that recall Ireland and Scotland. The style is illustrative, not photorealistic, with soft transitions and a contemplative mood.
The cardstock is sturdy and has a light gloss. The cards shuffle smoothly, even for smaller hands. The 50 x 81 mm format makes them compact enough for a coat pocket or small bag.
How this deck behaves in use
The absence of rigid frameworks and fixed symbolism makes this deck suitable for people who want to read by feel. There are no keywords on the cards. The guidebook gives brief descriptions but leaves much open.
The format makes the deck practical for travel. Many people use it for daily card draws during a walk or journey, or as a second deck alongside a larger one at home.
Draw a card before you go for a walk and see if you notice the theme in what you encounter. The natural imagery lends itself well to that.
About Floreana Nativo and Cristina Scagliotti
Floreana Nativo focuses her work on projects that centre feminine energy and connection to nature. Her decks and oracles often have a spiritual, gentle tone.
Cristina Scagliotti illustrates with a preference for folklore and myths. Her style combines detail with atmosphere, giving the cards a dreamlike, almost melancholic quality.
Specifications
- Number of cards: 78 (full tarot)
- Size: 50 x 81 mm
- Weight: 145 g
- Publisher: Lo Scarabeo
- Language: English (cards and guidebook)
- ISBN: 9788865276899
- Cardstock: sturdy, light gloss
- Design: borderless
- Author: Floreana Nativo
- Illustrator: Cristina Scagliotti
Questions we often get
Are the details visible on this small format?
Yes. The borderless design and clear colours ensure that the illustrations remain readable, even at 50 x 81 mm. The compositions are built for it.
Does this deck follow Rider-Waite symbolism?
Not strictly. The structure is recognisable (78 cards, Major and Minor Arcana), but the visual language is freer and more focused on Celtic themes than on standard RWS iconography.