LIST PRICE: $24.95

ISBN: 1-56718-365-4

TYPE OF DECK: A well-known esoteric/symbolic artist, Nigel Jackson appears to utilize much of the Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) system in conjunct with Classic tarot terminology. That is, the Minor Arcana symbols remain consistent with the RWS decks, yet many of the Major Arcana cards are labeled in a fashion consistent with the Classic style. For example, The Magician becomes the Juggler and the Hierophant is once again the Pope.

ARTISTIC STYLE: Jackson’s artwork is relatively well known for its soft, muted sense. In this deck, he attempts to create a renaissance feel that appears somewhat cartoon-like.

DECK BOOKLET: Apparently, Llewellyn has begun a trend in marketing their Tarot decks to be accompanied by a text more substantive than a standard little white book (LWB). Although not requisite for the effective use of this deck, the 143-page mini book that accompanies this deck is a relatively valuable find. Jackson’s viewpoints regarding Pythagorean theory as it relates to Tarot, for example is thought-provoking and well worth the time invested in reading. Jackson also provides his viewpoints regarding the history of Tarot and card meanings. Rather than utilizing the standard “Celtic Cross” 10-card spread, Jackson provides an outline for more unique spreads compatible with his Pythagorean philosophy (e.g., the Key of Hermes, the Pythagorean Method, the Eastern Cross).

BOOK: At present, there do not appear to be any companion books for this deck.

SHUFFLE-ABILITY: The Nigel Jackson Tarot takes on dimensions that are rather idiosyncratic to the typical tarot deck in that it is slightly wider than most (5-1/8” x 3-3/8”). As such, even seasoned readers may find moderate difficulty acclimating to shuffling this deck.

QUALITY OF PRINTING: Printed on high-quality, plastic-coated cardstock, this deck is quite durable and the colors appear soft without becoming overly subdued.

ADDITIONAL SYMBOL SYSTEM: Although Jackson purports a Pythagorean approach to Tarot, he does not overwhelm the reader with geometric numerical notations on the cards. The elements associated with each suit of the Minor Arcana are well represented symbolically (the Swords represent fire and the Staves represent air in this system), and the aces of each suit have the elements indicated in Latin upon a scroll.

ACCESSORIES / PACKAGE: Owing to the large size of the accompanying manuals, Llewellyn has been marketing several Tarot decks in a moderately sized slip-box containing both the deck and the accompanying book. This seems to be a vast improvement over the former tendency to store the smaller LWB in the same box as the cards and makes for convenient access.

BEST POINTS: Jackson’s reputation as a symbolic artist is well earned. The artwork of the cards is engaging and ideal for readers who wish to capture a “Renaissance” feel. Although Jackson certainly promotes a specific philosophy regarding Tarot reading, he does not permeate the cards with symbols to the point of inflexibility. That is, one need not be a Pythagorean to make use of these cards.

WORST POINTS: Although the unique size of the cards may make shuffling a bit challenging for some individuals, acclimating to these cards should not be a significant problem. Further, although many may feel that the system of reading promoted by Jackson may be a bit farfetched or incompatible with their own style, this deck appears to be adaptable to other systems of reading. However, the Nigel Jackson Tarot makes sufficient deviations from both the RWS and Classic systems that novice readers (or those who prefer not to deviate from either system) may find this deck somewhat challenging to interpret.

REVIEWER'S COMMENTS: In sum, the Nigel Jackson Tarot is a beautifully illustrated deck accompanied by interesting theories regarding Tarot reading. It’s uniqueness and size, however, may make this a deck slightly more appropriate for more seasoned readers than those just beginning.

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