Tarot of the Zirkus Mägi - FINAL DAYS

The Tarot of the Zirkus Mägi is a unique Majors-only tarot deck created by Doug Thornsjo, drawing inspiration from his fantasy novel, "See Them Dance." The deck merges the vibrant, mystical world of retro circus arts with established tarot symbolism, specifically cross-pollinating Rider-Waite-Smith and Crowley Thoth systems. This initial offering, limited to 300 copies, focuses on the 22 Major Arcana, with a full 78-card version intended for release in 2014.

Thornsjo's approach to the deck is deeply personal, born from a desire to create a "working deck" that is both visually appealing and symbolically rich. Each card design involved extensive research to ensure that the circus imagery accurately conveyed the traditional tarot meanings. The deck is presented as "Mme. Loviise's Tarot of the Zirkus Magi," inviting users into a world of "jollity and magic, of Mysticism and high-flying performance art," aiming to provide access to the "Great Show of Life that Never Ends."

Printed by J.S. McCarthy Printers on 16 pt card stock with a gloss UV coating, the cards are 3" x 5" and come wrapped in a belly band. The production emphasizes sustainability, using FSC certified, 55% recycled paper and 100% wind power. This commitment to ethical production, combined with the blend of two major tarot traditions and a distinctive theme, positions the Tarot of the Zirkus Mägi as a thoughtful and engaging deck for both collectors and practitioners.

This deck is ideal for tarot enthusiasts interested in unique, themed decks, particularly those with an appreciation for vintage aesthetics, circus arts, or theatrical themes. Readers who enjoy decks that blend different tarot traditions (RWS and Thoth) will find its symbolism intriguing. It's also suitable for collectors due to its limited Majors-only release and connection to a fantasy novel. While the creator aims for it to be a "working deck" for both practitioners and novices, beginners might find the combined RWS/Thoth symbolism and unique imagery require some dedicated study.

Doug Thornsjo, a writer, cartoonist, and designer, conceived the Tarot of the Zirkus Mägi while working on his fantasy novel, "See Them Dance." A character in the novel, a telepath and fortune teller, needed her own circus-themed deck, which became the catalyst for this project. Thornsjo, a lifelong enthusiast of performing arts and mysticism, undertook serious study of tarot to create a genuine working deck, not just a promotional piece for his book. He meticulously researched each card to match its meaning with the circus imagery, aiming for a deck that would "talk and to tell and to interact."