BB121: Beyond the Veil: Unveiling the Secrets of ‘The Pictorial Key to the Tarot

The Pictorial Key to the Tarot

BB121

Unlocking the Symbols: A Fresh Perspective on ‘The Pictorial Key to the Tarot’

In the realm of tarot, few works have been as influential as ‘The Pictorial Key to the Tarot’. Authored by Arthur Edward Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, this guidebook is a cornerstone for enthusiasts and practitioners alike.

1. Historical Context:
• Published in the early 20th century, this guide accompanied the iconic Rider-Waite tarot deck.
• Waite and Smith were both members of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a society that had a profound impact on Western esotericism.
2. Content Overview:
• The book is divided into three parts, offering a comprehensive look at the tarot’s symbolism, history, and usage.
• Part I, titled “The Veil and Its Symbols,” provides insights into the traditional symbols associated with each card and a brief history of tarot.
• Part II, “The Doctrine Behind the Veil,” presents the 78 black and white plates of Smith’s illustrations and discusses the unique symbols chosen for each card.
• Part III, “The Outer Method of the Oracles,” delves into divination methods, including the now-famous Celtic Cross spread.
3. Waite’s Scholarship:
• Waite was meticulous about the accuracy of the symbols used in the deck, conducting extensive research into the traditions and interpretations behind the cards.
• He engaged with the work of French occultist Eliphas Levi, at times adopting and at other times critiquing Levi’s interpretations.
4. Impact and Legacy:
• The guide has helped popularize the Rider-Waite deck and has become a go-to reference for understanding the rich symbolism of tarot cards.
• Its influence extends beyond tarot enthusiasts to scholars of religion, mysticism, and art.
5. Controversies and Imitations:
• In 1918, an exact facsimile of the book was published without crediting Waite or Smith, highlighting the challenges of intellectual property in the early 20th century.

In essence, ‘The Pictorial Key to the Tarot’ is more than a guidebook; it’s a portal to the esoteric traditions that have shaped the modern understanding of the tarot. Its enduring popularity underscores the timeless fascination with the tarot’s ability to illuminate the human experience.

More info

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Pictorial_Key_to_the_Tarot