Vintage Japanese Print Advertisement Tarot Card Deck

The Vintage Japanese Print Advertisement Tarot Card Deck is a 78-card set that recontextualizes historical Japanese commercial art into a complete tarot system. Created by Bobby Alexander, the deck draws on the rich visual heritage of vintage print advertisements, transforming them into the Major and Minor Arcana. This approach offers a unique aesthetic that blends cultural history with the symbolic framework of tarot.

The deck is offered in two sizes: a "Full Size" and a "Poker Size," catering to different preferences for handling and portability. Each of the 78 cards is fully illustrated, ensuring that both the Major and Minor Arcana are represented with distinct imagery derived from the vintage prints. This design choice provides a cohesive visual experience throughout the entire deck, making it suitable for both collectors and readers who appreciate historical art.

By utilizing vintage advertisements, the deck introduces a nostalgic and culturally specific visual language to tarot. The images, originally designed to promote products or services, are reinterpreted to convey tarot meanings, inviting readers to engage with the cards through a unique lens. This blend of commercial art and divination offers a fresh perspective on traditional tarot symbolism, making the deck a distinctive addition to any collection.

This deck is ideal for tarot collectors interested in unique, art-focused decks, particularly those with an appreciation for vintage aesthetics, Japanese culture, or historical commercial art. It also appeals to readers who enjoy decks that offer a fresh, non-traditional visual interpretation of tarot while maintaining the standard 78-card structure. Its distinct visual style makes it a conversation piece and a valuable addition for those seeking a deck with a strong cultural identity.

Bobby Alexander created this tarot deck by drawing inspiration from vintage Japanese print advertisements. The project aimed to transform these historical commercial artworks into a complete 78-card tarot system, offering a unique blend of cultural aesthetics and divination. The deck successfully funded on Kickstarter in 2024, demonstrating an audience for this distinctive artistic approach to tarot.