Wisdom of the Depths Tarot (2nd Edition)

Name: Wisdom of the Depths Tarot (2nd Edition)
Brand: Lyn Thurman

by Lyn Thurman

Tarot79 cards

rider-waite-smithoceanicmarine-lifemythologicaletherealsea-themedunderwater

Theme: Rider-Waite-Smith tarot with a sea and mythological twist

Medium: digital

The Wisdom of the Depths Tarot is a 79-card deck by Lyn Thurman, offering a sea-themed interpretation of traditional Rider-Waite-Smith symbolism. This 2nd Edition features oceanic imagery and characters across its Major and Minor Arcana.

About This Deck

The Wisdom of the Depths Tarot, 2nd Edition, is a 79-card deck that reinterprets the classic Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) system through a rich, aquatic lens. Created by artist Lyn Thurman, the deck integrates traditional tarot archetypes with imagery drawn from marine life, mythology, and underwater landscapes. Each card, from the Major Arcana to the 56 Minor Arcana, is designed to evoke the mysteries and energies of the ocean, providing a fresh perspective on familiar tarot meanings.

The deck's thematic focus on the sea allows for a unique reading experience, where the ebb and flow of tides, the depths of the ocean, and its diverse inhabitants become metaphors for life's journey, emotions, and challenges. The inclusion of a 79th card suggests a bonus or alternative card, common in modern indie decks, which often adds a unique element or perspective to the traditional RWS structure. This thematic consistency aims to create a cohesive and immersive world for readers.

Visually, the deck combines elements of classical illustration with a dreamy, ethereal quality, utilizing a color palette that reflects the ocean's varied moods—from serene blues and greens to the vibrant hues of coral reefs. The artwork maintains enough of the original RWS compositional cues to be recognizable to experienced readers, while the unique marine overlay offers new layers of interpretation. The deck is designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and functionally intuitive for those familiar with the RWS system.

Key Features

79-card deck, including a bonus card beyond the standard 78 RWS structure
Based on traditional Rider-Waite-Smith symbolism with a unique sea twist
Digitally illustrated artwork with a dreamy, aquatic aesthetic
Successfully funded Kickstarter campaign in 2023
2nd Edition release

Who It's For

This deck is ideal for tarot readers who appreciate the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith system but are seeking a fresh, thematic interpretation. It will particularly appeal to those with an affinity for ocean themes, marine life, and mythological aesthetics. Intermediate to advanced readers will find the RWS foundation easy to navigate, while the unique imagery offers new avenues for intuitive interpretation. Collectors of themed decks and those who enjoy a dreamy, ethereal art style will also find this deck appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cards are in the Wisdom of the Depths Tarot?

The Wisdom of the Depths Tarot (2nd Edition) is a 79-card deck. This includes the traditional 78 cards of the Rider-Waite-Smith system, along with one additional bonus card, offering an expanded reading experience.

Is the Wisdom of the Depths Tarot suitable for beginners?

While the deck is based on the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith symbolism, its unique sea-themed imagery might require some familiarity with tarot to fully appreciate the nuances. However, if a beginner is drawn to the theme and is willing to learn RWS meanings, the deck's consistent visual language can be a great aid to intuitive understanding.

What is the artistic style of the Wisdom of the Depths Tarot?

The deck features digitally illustrated artwork in a soft, painterly style. It uses a predominantly aquatic color palette of blues, greens, and purples, creating a dreamy and ethereal mood. The imagery blends classical figures with marine life and underwater landscapes, offering a unique visual interpretation of tarot archetypes.

Does this deck follow the Rider-Waite-Smith system?

Yes, the Wisdom of the Depths Tarot is explicitly based on the traditional symbolism of the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot. While the imagery is reinterpreted with a sea twist, the underlying structure and meanings are designed to align with the RWS system, making it accessible to those familiar with that tradition.