Alchemical Visions

The Alchemical Visions Tarot by Arthur Taussig is an incredible experience to say the least. The journey through richly nuanced cards even begins with thoroughly thought out packaging that speaks to the decks’ theme of peeling back layers to reveal the true self.

The artwork in each card reminds me of the alchemical paintings of old done for a modern audience. In both, the secrets of The Great Work are presented for all to see, but in a way that only those that put in the work can actually discover. It feels like you could spend a lifetime studying each card.

I always make sure to take a minute and respond intuitively to a deck before opening the book and diving into the author’s interpretations. My immediate reaction was ‘Wow, these are wonderfully intense! I would be intimidated to do a reading with these, but could spend HOURS studying each card.’ After diving into the book, I think Taussig intends for you to do just that, use each card as an individual study and meditation rather than use them for divination.

The descriptions of each card go through each card in full detail, highlighting all the minute components and symbolism. Missing is any meaning the cards may have in a reading. Taussig shared his journey of creating this deck by first ‘living with a [classic tarot] card’ each day, going through the full deck several times to build deep, nuanced relationships with each card. This dedicated work certainly comes through in creating a tool that will help you dive into the hidden depths of tarot, and thus yourself. I can’t wait to incorporate this mind-blowing deck into my daily draw and meditations!