Ars Goetia Tarot Deck

The Ars Goetia Tarot Deck is a unique divination tool that delves into the demonic lore of the Ars Goetia, a grimoire detailing 72 spirits. Illustrated by Jim Pavelec, known for his dark art, the deck offers a distinct perspective on tarot, focusing on the entities and themes from this ancient text. The campaign successfully funded in 2021, raising $35,265 from 261 backers, indicating a strong interest in occult and dark art-themed decks.

The deck's core offering includes 50 or more fully illustrated cards, with the final count dependent on unlocked stretch goals. These cards are professionally printed with a gloss finish and measure 2.75" x 4.75". Two main editions were available: a Standard Edition with silver/blue details and a Collector’s Edition featuring gold details, each housed in a beautiful box. The Standard Edition box features the demon Raum, while the Collector's Edition box features Buer.

While described as a "Demon Tarot Deck," the campaign explicitly states a card count of "50 or more," which is significantly less than the standard 78 cards of a traditional tarot deck. This suggests that it functions more as an oracle deck or a specialized tarot system rather than a complete RWS or Thoth-based tarot. The accompanying hardcover guide book is essential for understanding the specific interpretations and connections to the Ars Goetia lore.

This deck is ideal for collectors of dark art and occult-themed divination tools, particularly those interested in demonology, grimoires, or the Ars Goetia specifically. It caters to experienced readers who are comfortable working with non-traditional card counts and systems, or those looking for a specialized oracle rather than a standard tarot. Its aesthetic appeals to individuals who appreciate gothic, fantasy, and horror art styles, and are drawn to the darker, more shadow-work aspects of divination.

Hexenhammer specializes in occult, dark art, and witchcraft-themed books and tarot decks. Their collaboration with artist Jim Pavelec for the Ars Goetia Tarot Deck aligns with their established brand, focusing on niche, darker themes within the divination and art communities. The successful Kickstarter campaign for this deck demonstrates their ability to connect with an audience interested in these specific subjects.