Universal Tarot Giant - Proffesional Edition

Universal Tarot - Professional Edition - an RWS deck at double size

Rider-Waite decks are everywhere. This is a version you mostly see with tarot readers who work in public spaces. The cards are nearly twice as large as a standard deck, which means someone sitting across from you can follow along without leaning over your shoulder.

Roberto de Angelis has taken the original symbolism of Pamela Colman Smith and made the lines more graphic. The colours are brighter and flatter than in the classic RWS deck. That works well at this size: the cards stay visually calm, even when you lay several side by side.

What you hold in your hands

Each card measures 100 x 182 mm. That is large. The cardstock is thicker than average and coated with a lacquer finish that prevents edge wear. The deck weighs nearly a kilogram.

Shuffling works differently than with a standard deck. Most people choose table shuffling or split the cards into smaller stacks. Overhand shuffling is possible but takes some getting used to.

The colours are bright and contrast sharply. Yellow, red and blue dominate. Transitions are flat and graphic, no watercolour-like gradients. That makes the symbolism readable from a distance.

Who this deck is made for

This deck is designed for professional use. The format is meant to be seen by someone other than the reader. That makes it less suitable for private practice at a small table or for travel.

The symbolism follows the Rider-Waite system completely. If you are used to RWS, you will recognize everything immediately. The graphic approach does not change the meanings.

Test first whether your table is large enough. A Celtic Cross with these cards easily takes up 80 by 60 centimetres.

About Roberto de Angelis

Roberto de Angelis is an Italian illustrator who has designed several tarot decks for Lo Scarabeo. His style is characterized by clear lines and a graphic approach. He works digitally, which results in flat colour areas and sharp transitions.

Specifications

• Number of cards: 78
• Card size: 100 x 182 mm
• Finish: extra sturdy cardstock with reinforced lacquer coating
• Weight: approx. 990 grams
• Packaging: sturdy cardboard box, 196 x 50 x 117 mm
• Guidebook: multilingual instruction booklet
• Publisher: Lo Scarabeo
• Artist: Roberto de Angelis

Questions we often get

Are these cards suitable for beginners?
Yes, if the format does not bother you. The imagery is identical to the classic Rider-Waite system, so the symbolism is accessible. The large format actually makes details easier to see.

Is the difference with the standard Universal Tarot only the size?
No. This Professional Edition is also made of thicker cardstock and has a reinforced lacquer coating. It is built to handle daily intensive use.