In a fascinating new exhibition at The Morgan Library & Museum, the evolution of tarot cards is explored, tracing their origins from a 15th-century card game in Italy to their contemporary status as symbols of mysticism and self-discovery. Titled “Tarot! Renaissance Symbols, Modern Visions,” the show highlights the rich artistic history of tarot and features over two dozen artists, including the likes of Leonora Carrington, Remedios Varo, and the celebrated British painter Chris Ofili.
The Shift from Game to Divination
Originally conceived as a leisure activity for the elite, tarot cards began their journey in Renaissance Italy, where they were hand-painted by skilled artisans for the affluent. Claire Gilman, curator of the Modern Visions section of the exhibition, notes that it was only in the 18th century, as the cards made their way to France, that they began to be associated with the occult. This shift marked the beginning of tarot’s transformation into a tool for divination, a transition that continued to unfold as the cards spread across the globe in the 20th century.
Today, tarot’s resurgence in popularity is undeniable, with a significant spike in interest noted during the pandemic. Independent bookstores are now stocked with a plethora of decks, reflecting a cultural embrace of this ancient practice. Gilman attributes the tarot’s enduring appeal to its unique blend of continuity and transformation, stating, “There is so much continuity, but there’s also a tremendous amount of change and transformation.”
Artistic Evolution and Cultural Significance
At the heart of the exhibition is the Visconti-Sforza deck, one of the oldest surviving tarot collections, characterised by its exquisite artistry and intricate designs. A joint display of this rare deck from The Morgan and the Accademia Carrara in Bergamo, Italy, offers visitors a glimpse into the opulence of 15th-century craftsmanship. Co-curator Joshua O’Driscoll emphasises that these early cards, while nearly 600 years old, are strikingly similar in structure to modern decks.
The Visconti-Sforza deck draws inspiration from Petrarch’s “Triumphs,” which narrates a journey from sin to redemption. This foundational narrative has evolved significantly, particularly with the introduction of the Rider-Waite-Smith deck in 1909. Gilman points out the innovation of illustrating the minor arcana, a departure from previous traditions, which contributed to its massive global success. “It really enhances the mystery built into these cards, and also the accessibility,” she explains, highlighting how the imagery invites personal interpretation and storytelling.
The Contemporary Tarot Renaissance
As the 20th century progressed, new decks emerged, with figures like Aleister Crowley and David Palladini introducing fresh perspectives. The 1960s and 1970s saw a boom in tarot publications, yet today, the market is flooded with hundreds of options, each reflecting a unique artistic vision. The open-ended nature of tarot’s imagery allows artists to draw from its rich symbolism while infusing their personal creativity into their designs.
The exhibition features a diverse array of contemporary works, including Ithell Colquhoun’s “Tarot as Color,” the first fully abstract deck, and Xul Solar’s hand-painted deck, which showcases Mesoamerican influences. Notably, Surrealist artists like Carrington and Varo harnessed the mystique of tarot to enhance their own artistic narratives, using the cards as a springboard for exploration rather than creating complete decks.
The Ubiquity of Tarot Today
Gilman identifies a pivotal moment in the tarot’s journey around 2019, when its presence began to permeate mainstream culture. The pandemic accelerated this trend, as people sought solace and guidance in the cards during uncertain times. “The arcana are so universal,” she remarks, noting that fundamental concepts like justice, love, and temperance resonate across various cultures, allowing individuals to connect with the cards in a deeply personal way.
“Tarot! Renaissance Symbols, Modern Visions” is now on display at The Morgan Library & Museum in New York until 4 October. This exhibition invites both the curious and the knowledgeable to explore the multifaceted world of tarot, showcasing its evolution from a mere card game to a profound tool for self-reflection and artistic expression.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of tarot in contemporary society speaks volumes about our collective quest for meaning and understanding in a complex world. As a vibrant cultural phenomenon, tarot transcends boundaries, offering a universal language that resonates with individuals from all walks of life. Through art, history, and self-exploration, tarot continues to captivate and inspire, reminding us of the power of storytelling and symbolism in navigating our personal journeys.
