The images for the deck were drawn by artist Pamela Colman Smith, to the instructions of academic and mystic A. E. Waite, and published by the Rider Company. Hence the many variations of the name of the deck. Many think the drawings are simplistic and unencouraging but the true initiate sees the depth and wealth of symbolism hidden within the cards, Waite was not trifling or uncomplete in any underttaking of his most especially this deck. It originaly was published in 1909 and Waite's biggest inspiration and wealth of knowledge on the design of the cards came from Eliphas Levi a French occultist from the 1800's. In 1910 Waite put out the book to go with the deck The Pictorial Guide to the Tarot which received much criticism in its time. Waite's deck seemed to lift the boundaries of the Tarot cards and restore yet closer to the original or intended purpose. They close the door to no ideal or state of mind giving names to his cards that are broad and universal.

To Purchase a Rider-Waite Tarot deck please contact us at letherebelight@orascope.com