This deck was a refreshing change from all the tarot decks out there that actually mean something.  The art style in these cards is light and simple, black line drawings on brightly colored backgrounds.  The artist has completely redefined simple from scratch.  Any resemblance to a workable tarot deck is certainly an accident and in no way intentional.

The booklet which is enclosed with the deck goes on to excuse the lack of symbolism by saying that the cards express "mystery" and  reflect the "openness" of the true meaning of tarot.  Personally, I don't see any connection at all between a harlequin dancer and the Hermit.  Forgive me if I'm missing something.  But as I look at these cards, I hear the theme music from Spiderman in my head.....

The deck itself is standard sized and comfortable to hold and shuffle.  The suits are the traditional Staves, Swords, Cups and Coins.  Interestingly, the Cups all have the Eye of Horus on them.  I think the artist wanted to demonstrate
that he could draw the Eye of Horus really well.  The suit of Coins is supposed to have the artist's self-portrait in the coins, and this is the only figure in the entire deck who is not wearing a mask.

For those who collect Harlequins, and there are a lot of people out there who do, this is an interesting addition to the collection.  Also theatrical people might like it.  However, it's not a terribly useful deck.

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Review Copyright 1998 by Gina M. Pace