Rosebud Tarot (1st edition)
The Rosebud Tarot is a 78-card tarot deck based on the structure and images found in the classic Rider-Waite-Smith, but with modern updates. Its images, created by Amanda Lee Stilwell, are digital collage dreamscape pathways into archetype. Its guidebook, written by Diana Rose Harper, is heartopening mythopoetry that gives keys to meaning, not just keywords to memorize.
The deck's creators have deliberately chosen to rename several of the cards — including renaming the court cards — as part of the larger project that several deck creators have been participating in for years: bringing the images & language of the tarot into a contemporary context, acknowledging gender multiplicity, and moving towards archetypal depictions that are more resonant for modern meaning-making. Additionally, this deck highlights the elements for each minor arcana suit, rather than using the traditional titles.
Some name changes include:
- PENTACLES become EARTH, CUPS become WATER, WANDS become FIRE, and SWORDS become AIR
- PAGES become CURIOSITY, KNIGHTS become VELOCITY, QUEENS become GENEROSITY, and KINGS become SOVEREIGNTY
- THE FOOL becomes THE YOUTH, THE EMPRESS becomes THE LIFEGIVER, THE HIEROPHANT becomes THE PROFESSOR, and JUDGEMENT becomes EMERGENCE (among other updates to the Major Arcana)
The deck comes with a 64-page, full-color guidebook and is packed into a two-piece box. The cards measure 3” x 4.5” and feature an embossed linen finish.