The Original Rider Waite Tarot Deck is a cornerstone of modern tarot and one of the most influential tarot decks ever created.

First issued in 1910, the deck was created by mystic and occult scholar A. E. Waite, with the 78 iconic illustrations brought to life by artist Pamela Colman Smith. The imagery has become the foundation for countless tarot decks that followed, making the Rider-Waite tradition one of the most familiar systems for modern tarot readers.

The deck contains the traditional 78 cards, divided into the 22 Major Arcana and 56 Minor Arcana, with the Minor Arcana divided into four suits.

Unlike some modern tarot decks that reinterpret or heavily alter the traditional imagery, this deck retains Pamela Colman Smith's original designs. The richly illustrated Minor Arcana cards make it particularly useful for learning tarot, as the scenes and symbolism provide visual clues that can help readers develop their understanding of the cards.

An instructional booklet is included, explaining the meanings of the cards and how they can be used for divination. The booklet also features an introduction by renowned tarot expert Stuart R. Kaplan.

Whether you're purchasing your first tarot deck, learning the traditional Rider-Waite system or adding a classic deck to your collection, this is a timeless addition to any tarot practice.

About the Creator & Artist

A. E. Waite

Arthur Edward Waite was an American-born British poet, scholar and mystic whose interests included divination, magic, Kabbalah, alchemy and Freemasonry. He was the designer and co-creator of the tarot deck that bears his name and directed Pamela Colman Smith in creating the card imagery.

Pamela Colman Smith

Pamela Colman Smith, also known as "Pixie", was an English artist and illustrator. Her work included book, pamphlet and poster illustration as well as theatrical design.

Working under Waite's guidance, she created the 78 allegorical illustrations that became the Rider-Waite Tarot. Her artwork combines symbolism, mysticism, imagination and emotion, and has had an enormous influence on tarot imagery ever since.

What the Deck Is Best For

The Original Rider Waite Tarot Deck is particularly suited to:

• 🔮 Beginners learning tarot
• 📖 Anyone studying the traditional Rider-Waite system
• 🃏 Experienced tarot readers
• ✨ Intuitive readings
• 🌙 Daily card pulls
• 🧘 Meditation and reflection
• 📚 Learning traditional tarot symbolism
• 🎴 Readers wanting a classic tarot deck
• 🧙 Witchcraft and spiritual practice
• 🎁 Anyone looking for a foundational tarot deck

Deck Details

Title: The Original Rider Waite Tarot Deck
Creators: A. E. Waite & Pamela Colman Smith
Illustrator: Pamela Colman Smith
Publisher: Ebury Publishing
Imprint: Rider / Rider & Co
Publication date: 10 June 1999
Number of cards: 78
Major Arcana: 22
Minor Arcana: 56
Suits: Wands, Cups, Swords & Pentacles
Guidebook: Instructional booklet, 80 pages
Language: English
ISBN-13: 9780712670579
ISBN-10: 0712670572
Dimensions: approximately 127 × 77 × 32 mm
Weight: approximately 238g