Universal Wirth Tarot – A Masterpiece of Esoteric Tradition Reimagined
About this Deck/Book
The Universal Wirth Tarot represents a bridge between the mystical past and the intuitive present. Originally conceived by the renowned Swiss occultist Oswald Wirth in 1889, the deck initially consisted only of the 22 Major Arcana. This modern "Universal" edition thoughtfully expands upon Wirth’s foundational work, completing the deck with 56 fully illustrated Minor Arcana. The result is a seamless 78-card journey that remains faithful to the Hermetic and alchemical atmosphere of the 19th-century esoteric revival while providing a complete system for contemporary seekers.
Symbolism and Themes
The imagery of the Universal Wirth Tarot is bathed in expressive, saturated hues and rich symbolic layers. Wirth’s system was deeply rooted in the philosophy of Freemasonry, Kabbalah, and the secrets of the ancients. In this expansion, the 56 Minor Arcana are designed with decorative elements that surround the traditional suit symbols, adding visual depth and narrative texture. The deck serves as a "universal" language, uniting diverse esoteric traditions into a single, cohesive visual grimoire that speaks to the subconscious mind.
The Creators
Oswald Wirth
Oswald Wirth (1860–1943) was a prominent Swiss occultist, artist, and author who remains a titan in the history of Tarot. Under the guidance of Stanislas de Guaita, Wirth created one of the most influential decks in the esoteric world. His life’s work was dedicated to the study of symbolism and the unification of spiritual traditions. This deck honors his legacy by extending his artistic vision to the entire Tarot structure, as realized by the experts at Lo Scarabeo.
Practical Use
The Universal Wirth Tarot is a versatile tool suited for a variety of spiritual practices. Its clear, structured symbolism makes it an excellent choice for deep esoteric study, meditation, and complex spreads. Because it leans into the traditional Marseille-style roots but with modern artistic clarity, it allows the reader to tap into ancestral wisdom while receiving clear, practical guidance for modern-day dilemmas.
"When working with this deck, pay close attention to the color palette of each card; the hues often signify the elemental and alchemical state of the situation you are inquiring about."
Features
- Number of cards: 78
- Language: Multilingual (English, Spanish, French, Italian, German)
- ISBN: 9780738712925
- Publisher: Lo Scarabeo
- Weight: 235 g
- Dimensions: 66 x 120 mm
Expert FAQ
How does this deck differ from the original 1889 Wirth Tarot?
The original 1889 deck by Oswald Wirth contained only the 22 Major Arcana. This "Universal" edition completes the system by adding 56 Minor Arcana, illustrated in a style that respects and mirrors Wirth’s original aesthetic and esoteric philosophy.
Is this deck suitable for those used to the Rider-Waite-Smith system?
While the Minor Arcana are illustrated with decorative symbols, they follow a more traditional European/Marseille structure rather than the narrative scenes found in RWS. However, the multilingual guide and clear symbolism make it very accessible for those looking to expand their knowledge beyond RWS.
What is the significance of the card back design?
The cards feature a reversible back with a purple and white design depicting a cross and a bird in a nest—a classic symbol of sacrifice, nurturing, and the spiritual "pelican" often found in alchemical and Rosicrucian iconography.
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