Tarot Jean Dodal
The Mystery and Legacy of the Jean Dodal Tarot Deck
The Jean Dodal Tarot deck, an 18th-century artistic masterpiece, is one of the oldest classic Tarot de Marseille decks recorded in history. Produced in Lyon, France, this deck is not only a divinatory tool but also a rich cultural heritage, containing valuable historical mysteries.
One of the most intriguing mysteries related to this deck is the change in the spelling of Jean Dodal’s name. On the 2 of Cups card, the name is written as “Jean Dodal,” while on the 2 of Coins, it is “Faict a Lyon par Jean Dodali.” This indicates that the deck was produced in Lyon by “Jean Dodali” and also suggests that Dodal may have changed his name to better suit exportation to Italy.
The abbreviations PLN and FPE on the 2 of Cups card also support this hypothesis, with PLN possibly standing for “Pour Le Négoce” (For Business) and FPE meaning “fait pour l’etranger” (made for export). This reflects a smart strategy in expanding the market and distributing Dodal’s products beyond the French borders.
The Jean Dodal Tarot deck is not just an artwork but also a window into the past, allowing us to gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the era. With its reproduction and restoration, this deck continues to inspire and support Tarot enthusiasts around the world.