Victorian Steampunk Tarot

Mind Body & Soul Ezine Card Deck Review: The Victorian Steampunk Tarot – Unravel the Mysteries of the Past, Present and Future, by Liz Dean and illustrated by Bev Speight. Published by Cico Books. The magnetised flip lip box includes a full deck of 78 tarot cards and a full colour explanatory booklet of each card. The cards can be interpreted either upright or upturned thought the backs are intended for exclusively upright use.

Computer graphic designs are by Bev Speight. The deck captures the spirit of the steampunk. Based on Rider-Waite deck but each card carries an individual artwork, with clockwork hearts and butterflies, deconstructed burlesque, brass spy glasses and other Victoriana, plasma screens, hot air balloons, the era of Jules Verne, Edgar Allen Poe, and Mary Shelley.   

These are for those who love the magic of retro! Each major arcana card is provided with a basic message with the astrological sign and keywords and a longer explanation of the card’s meaning both upright and upturned. Each minor arcana card is given an upright and upturned explanation. This is a creative tarot deck which centres on the Victorian’s love of botanical collections and the natural world. The Cups are depicted as dragonflies, the Wands as moths, the Swords as bees and the Pentacles as beetles. The booklet provides information on how to prepare for a reading by creating space and attuning to the cards, protecting and cleansing them. There is also guidance for readers on what to do if you are unable to make sense of a reading. There are spreads, such as a 3 card reading for past, present and future, a 2 card spirit message, how to get a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer by laying the cards three times, 7 cards to answer a question, the week or year ahead with 7 or 13 cards and the 10 card cross. 

Sample: This is the King of Bees which heralds a time of action, common sense and problem solving. The King can represent the positive influence of a professional man, such as a lawyer or business leader who is clever, witty and ambitious. He sees the big picture and has energy, however he bores easily and may soon move on.

The cards can be used for beginners or experienced readers. There are lots of images in these cards and they make an enjoyable gift for those who like vintage items or for a novelty fancy dress event.    

Recommended! Reviewer: Wendy Stokes www.wendystokes.co.uk