Cartes Infernales

The Cartes Infernales is a unique divination deck that recontextualizes the classic illustrations from the Dictionnaire Infernal, a 19th-century grimoire. Created by Ariana Osborne, this project successfully funded on Kickstarter in 2012, raising $26,043 from 447 backers. The deck is designed for "info/divination/fun" and is accompanied by a digital reference, suggesting a modern approach to interacting with historical occult material.

The Dictionnaire Infernal, originally published in 1818 by Jacques Auguste Simon Collin de Plancy, is a compendium of demonology, occultism, and superstition. By drawing upon these specific, detailed illustrations of demons, spirits, and mythological creatures, the Cartes Infernales offers a distinct visual language for its readings. The deck's purpose extends beyond traditional tarot or oracle systems, aiming to provide both informational insights and an entertaining experience through its evocative imagery.

The integration of a digital reference alongside the physical cards indicates a contemporary design choice, likely offering detailed explanations of each figure and its associated lore. This combination allows for a deeper dive into the historical context and potential interpretations of the infernal entities depicted, making the deck accessible for both serious practitioners and those interested in the historical and artistic aspects of demonology.

The artwork for the Cartes Infernales consists of detailed, black-and-white woodcut or engraving-style illustrations, directly sourced from the Dictionnaire Infernal. The image provided shows a multi-armed, grotesque figure holding a bowl and a fork, rendered with fine lines and cross-hatching typical of 19th-century printmaking. The style is distinctly antique, emphasizing texture and shadow through intricate linework. The original illustrations are presented in their classic form, with one version on a white background and another on a sepia-toned background, suggesting options for presentation or digital display. This approach preserves the historical integrity and eerie charm of the original source material.

This deck is ideal for collectors of unique and historically-themed divination tools, particularly those interested in demonology, occult history, and vintage illustration. It appeals to readers who appreciate a darker aesthetic and a more academic approach to their divination practice, utilizing a digital reference for in-depth understanding. It may also attract individuals seeking a non-traditional oracle or a deck with a strong, distinct thematic identity.