- Tarot of Mystical Moments – Borderless Miniature Edition
- Catrin Welz-Stein
- US Games, Inc. https://www.usgamesinc.com/tarot-of-mystical-moments-borderless-miniature-edition
- Recommended retail price: $13.95 US
- ISBN: 978-1-64671-217-5
- Review by Mary du Plessis
A whimsical, miniature, borderless deck? Yes, please!
In the LWB that accompanies this deck, Catrin Welz-Stein states that she: “blurs the lines between imagination and reality, while exploring womanhood in many different ways.” She demonstrates this, both subtly and directly, by including bonus, substitute cards for each of the four kings, and the Emperor, which replaces the traditional masculine image with a feminine one. I can see where this might be helpful for some readers in some readings, but I chose to test-drive this deck with the traditional imagery.
The artist created the card images by digitally rearranging public domain artwork, and to be honest, my initial impression of the cards was that they were somewhat one-dimensional, although still quite lovely and true to the original symbolism of the Rider-Waite-Smith system (which I always appreciate).
Digging in a bit further, I found several of the cards insightful in new ways. The Chariot is a woman riding a giant snail. This card is often thought to depict fast and forceful movement, but this image adds that some journeys are a marathon, and not a sprint. The Six of Cups epitomizes the nostalgic energy of the card, with a grown woman, reclining on the lawn as she daydreams about happy moments from her childhood. Balloons rise, growing larger, as they represent her life from child to woman.
The Eight of Wands is truly whimsical representation of woman riding a contraption of umbrellas atop an umbrella skirt. The Lovers card is a reminder that true love knows no bounds as a large bluebird in a top hat holds his human paramour close. And finally (for this review), The High Priestess is reminiscent of Emily Dickinson, with one foot anchored in the safety of her room, behind the heavy drapes, while she explores the wide world outside her window with her head in the cosmos.
I conducted readings for four clients, in succession, using The Tarot of Mystical Moments, and was not disappointed. By allowing my intuition to take control, as is my reading style, the images in the cards spoke clearly to my subconscious, allowing me to unlock the important messages and insight my clients were seeking.
The LWB is sparse, but I found additional insight into the artist’s thoughts when compiling the images helpful.
I use miniature decks when delivering larger tableau readings via email, or in person when table space is at a premium. I’ll put the deck in a sturdier bag to prevent damage when throwing it in my travel bag.
The Tarot of Mystical Moments will remain in my rotation of smaller decks that suit these purposes. It’s beautiful, the whimsical images are appealing, and fun!
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