Tarot of Dürer

The record

The Durer Tarot pays homage to the German artist of the Renaissance era, Albrecht Durer, who was famous for his paintings and lifelike engravings and is believed to be the 'best engraver of all time'. Contemporary artist, Giacinto Gaudenzi 'filtered the interpretation of thinking' of Durer's time and produced divinatory cards that are inspired by Durer's engraving style, but are not slavish reproductions. The majors are decorated with a Latin motto, the translation of which is provided in the companion booklet, and incorporate animals as allegorical symbols. The Magician has a cat, the Pope a snake, the Empress a Monkey. A rooster watches the Hanged Man, pulling the Chariot is a donkey, and accompanying the Hermit is a turtle. The minor suits correspond to a 'metaphor' of an animal. Chalices are associated with Doves, Pentacles with eagles, Wands with Lions, and Swords with Foxes. The artwork style across the deck features the highly detailed backgrounds, and delicate, muted and natural colours - dusty greens, blues, reds, hazed skies and rain. The cards have a strength and beauty, even if some scenes can appear a little earthy. Some cards are comical, bordering on bawdy. The Fool

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