Customer Reviews

Russian Tarot of St. Petersburg: 78-Card Deck

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I thought I was getting the tarot deck and a book of its history, but this is only a paperback about the history and traditions of Russia and this tarot style in specific. Informative and well-written, though.

I wish this deck can work for me. But it didn't. Although I have a special liking for dark deck, this is just too dark too heavy for me. Maybe because I am not particularly interested in Russia. The personality of this deck seems to me a true nihilist, the readings will be very negative no matter what I asked, even when I ask how is the relationship between me and this deck, all reverse of ones. This is much more negative than my Babara Walker deck in readings, negating everything.

yes, the artwork is very beautiful. This become only an art deck for me now. I'm giving this 3 because I really like the artwork and the black borders. Seldom there is a deck is so beautiful.

If you appreciate Russian miniature art, and like to collect Tarot cards, you will like these. They are simply beautiful. The book that (here) is purchased separately describes how they came to be, and the symbolism he chose to use. I think they should be purchased together.

For a beginner? I wouldn't recommend this deck. They would be difficult to use, but if you are experienced, or simply like to collect unusual cards, these will make a wonderful addition to your collection, or a fine gift for someone interested and already knowledgeable about Tarot.

I purchased this deck many years ago when it was first published, and although I have been reading tarot since 1979, I found this deck a little different than other decks. The symbolism and artwork are beautiful and not too complex to read even for a beginner, however, it just wasn't working for me. I put the deck away for many years and only recently decided to try using them for readings again. I am happy to say we grew to know each other and I now find it a beautiful, easy-to-read and accurate addition to my collection, and, I highly recommend it.

I had this deck for years, loaned it out, and finally had it returned. It is a classic. Why it is dedicated to St. Petersburg is strange. That always confused me, then I studied both cities. Most of the buildings are reminescent of Moscow. The artist lived and studied in Moscow. Perhaps it was named later. Russia does have 2 capitals, oddly enough. The name is beside the deck itself.

It captures the "Palekh" or slow style of painting. My deck fits inside of a nice little Palekh box. Sometimes a single hair brush is used to capture the details, which these images are full of! The images are set during the Russian middle ages for the most part. That is until the devil card appers. It is none other than Stalin! Rather outrageous. Ivan the Terrible just doesnt hold the same impact. It works flawlessly.

The deck uses standard Rider/Waite symbols, yet it seems a hard beginner deck. Perhaps it is the colors, or lack of. All of the backgrounds are black, bringing that somber, Russian mood to each card. This deck works well for collectors or those "Russo-philes" like myself. Get out your samovars and prepare a Russian Tea with plenty of company.

I knew this was the deck for me as soon as I saw it. I am of Russian/Ukranian heritage so it definitely spoke to me. I bought the companion book to the deck also and highly recommend learning it. This is the only deck I read with. I find that the Russian theme to the cards and the history only add to the readings. It gives an added dimension to the usual information. People of all backgrounds that I have read for have complimented the imagery, enjoyed the Russian info, and said it helped them understand the reading. A must for any Tarot lover.

The book took a long time to get to me, but it is in very good shape. I absolutely love the book. Thanks.

A deck to collect and treasure! Wonderful art work! A special deck one of the first in my collection.A real find a keeper.