Universal Tarot Mini - classic symbolism in pocket size
A mini deck is not automatically a compromise. This deck proves you can get a full tarot set in a format that fits your jacket pocket without losing readability.
Roberto De Angelis painted the 78 cards in a style that stays close to the Rider-Waite tradition. The scenes are recognizable, the colours clear, the lines sharp enough to work even at 44 x 80 mm.
What you see on the cards
The Major Arcana follow the iconography of Arthur E. Waite without much personal interpretation. The Magician stands at his table with the four symbols, the Hanged Man hangs from his T-shape, the Tower falls. No surprises, but a fresh execution.
The Minor Arcana are fully illustrated. That is not a given in a mini deck, but here you get all 56 cards with figures and scenes instead of just pip patterns.
The colour palette is rich and warm. Yellow, red and blue dominate, exactly as you would expect from a classic RWS deck. The backgrounds are mostly flat, which brings the figures forward.
How it feels in the hand
The cardstock is sturdy enough to withstand frequent use. The cards shuffle comfortably, even with smaller hands. The format makes them suitable for readings on small surfaces: a table on the train, a corner of your desk, a shelf in the kitchen.
The print quality is sharp. Details remain visible, even when you hold the card at arm's length. That is not always the case in mini decks.
This deck works well as a second set alongside a standard format. Take it with you on trips and leave your larger deck safely at home.
About Roberto De Angelis
Roberto De Angelis is known for his work within the traditional tarot tradition. He illustrates cards that align with the canon of Waite and Smith without simply copying. His style is modern enough to feel contemporary, classic enough to remain familiar.
Specifications
- Number of cards: 78
- Size: 44 x 80 mm
- Language: English
- ISBN: 9780738766942
- Publisher: Llewellyn Publications
- Material: sturdy cardstock
- Artist: Roberto De Angelis
- Guidebook: brief instructions included
Questions we often get
Are the details still clearly visible at such a small size?
Yes. The print quality is sharp and the artist uses clear lines and flat backgrounds, which keeps symbols and figures readable. You do not need a magnifying glass.
Can I use this deck with standard tarot books?
Yes. The symbolism follows the Rider-Waite tradition, so any guidebook or course based on RWS will work for this deck as well.