* Maat Tarot by Julie Cuccia-Watts.

   This breathtakingly lovely tarot deck is stuctured according to lunar cycles, the solstices & equinoxes, and the creation-centred cross-quarter days.  Each card image is deep, dark, and delicious -- sort of like having chocolate cake in card form.  But unlike cake, these cards are very nourishing.  The artist takes artistic styles from many periods and makes them all work together.  While the pictures are uncluttered, there is much to ponder when you look at them.  At the bottom of each is the card's name and its astrological assignation according to Cuccia-Watts' system.  Trump names remain traditional, but Cuccia-Watts gives them an original and personal spin.  Suits are Wands, Cups, Swords, and Coins.  Courts are Princess, Prince, Queen, and King.

   The accompanying hardcover book is very helpful.  There's a chart of the artist's system included and an introduction to the Maat Tarot that gives us a sense of her creative process.  There's a description of each card, including some historical and mythological background.  Each card is also given a traditional interpretation and a specifically Maat deck interpretation.  No spreads are provided which might be disappointing to some.  I usually design my own layouts so it's not a problem for me.

   If you're looking for a lush tarot deck that combines the best of tradition with juicy innovation, get the Maat Tarot! 

Review by James Wells from:

November, 2006