THE ENIGMATIC TAROT: Deciphering Italy’s Most Curious Decks

Buried deep in Tarot’s forgotten past are decks so strange and beautiful, they’re impossible to ignore—but how can we understand them today as modern practitioners? 

The earliest Tarot decks emerged in 15th-century Italy, less than 50 years after playing cards were introduced to Europe.  This period became one of experimentation and invention—long before the Marseille tradition brought standardization over a century later.  Despite their variety, many early decks feature recognizable versions of the Major Arcana we know today—with a few fascinating exceptions. These rogue decks are beautifully illustrated and deeply compelling, but are they readable?  Are they even truly Tarot?  How can we relate to them today?

Join Tarot reader and historian James Jude of James Jude Tarot for an in-depth look at three of Italy’s most fascinating outliers: the Sola Busca, the so-called Mantegna, and the Minchiate in interactive workshops designed to engage you with these historical decks.  If you’ve heard the names but weren’t sure what they meant—or if you’ve seen the cards and wondered how to use them—this is your chance to explore their history, symbolism, and relevance today.

Price: $35 per workshop or three-workshop pass for $90*

*These are in-person workshops at TarotArts and will not be recorded.  No refunds will be issued for missed workshops.