22 Talismani in 22 Arcani
The word Talisman comes from Greek
Telesma
meaning to "initiate into the mysteries". A talisman is an amulet or sacred object considered to possess
magical powers, placed on this object by an outside force. An inanimate object that one makes animate. In magic a talisman is
endowed with magical properties or magical forces of a specific nature. It could also
mean a sentimental object or souvenir that
when revisited years later; evokes a certain emotional response...
Master craftsman Osvaldo Menegazzi has created a symbolically rich, gorgeous deck of Trumps with
the
22 Talismani.
It was difficult
choosing which cards to post for this write-up due to them all being so meaningful and
beautiful. They touch that part of the heart-mind
that relates to symbology across the span of time and space. Most likely no written interpretation is needed.
Those who understand Tarot symbols will intuit many of the meanings but Cristina (Osvaldo's daughter) has hinted that an English version of the
accompanying booklet may be forthcoming. It would be
exciting to have access to Osvaldo's personal description of the meanings of these cards.
This page will be updated if such a booklet becomes available. For the time being,
each set includes a booklet in Italian; twelve
pages long, with a short intro and a paragraph dedicated to each of the 22 cards.
The Special Edition Box Sets
A hand-crafted box comes with the 22 Major Arcana and the set is available in two sizes
for this very limited edition of only
36 copies. Each box designed by Osvaldo, is an incredibly intricate, unique work of art. Tarot imagery from the deck is collaged on
painted wooden slabs and fastened to the box giving it a 3- dimensional presentation which is
most stunning. Osvaldo's logo
and signature hot-wax seal are finishing touches to the box. No photos of the
Special Editions are available at this time, but will be added to this posting
later. However one can look to any of the special, handcrafted sets Osvaldo has done in recent years, such as the
22 "Massonici"
to imagine the look and feel of such a set.
The Major Arcana Cards
The stunning artwork for each of the 22 Major Arcana cards in the Special
Edition sets is mounted on thick cardstock with dyed paper
that is wrapped around, (from back
to the front edges and folded down at each corner), giving it a vintage look.
Each set has a signed, stamped and numbered signature card. This is a personal favorite
of the series that Osvaldo has been handcrafting in recent years. It is a precious collectable
impossible to describe in all its wonderfulness. Designed and lovingly made in
his workshop, it became available in 2012.
The Signed, Numbered & Stamped Title Card
Booklet that Comes with the Set (in Italian)
Decorated Cardboard Box (Version #3 Below) Comes w/ 3.5 x 5" Size Cards; 250 numbered sets: €60.
Three versions of 22 Talismani in 22 Arcani:
Two versions come in handcrafted boxes while a third; more reasonably priced
set, comes in a decorated cardboard box (pictured above).
1) Large Size Box: Approximately 8 in. tall x 5 inches wide - 20 cm x 12 cm.
Cards: 6'' long x 4'' wide - 15.25 cm x 10 cm.
Only 36 signed and numbered sets will be made.
Price: €250. Euro
2) Smaller Size Box: Approximately 8" L x 3 inches W - 20.32 cm x 7.62 cm.
Cards: 3 1/2" long x 2 1/4'' wide - 8.9 cm x 5.75 cm
Only 36 signed and numbered sets will be made.
Price: €160. Euro
3) Standard, Large Deck in Decorated Cardboard Box: 7" L x 4.5 inches W - 17.78 cm x 11.43 cm.
Cards: 5" long x 3.5" wide - 12.7 cm x 8.89 cm
250 numbered sets
Cards in this reasonably priced set not mounted on thick cardstock, but printed on semi-gloss, textured cardstock
and include a signed, stamped & numbered signature card and booklet (in Italian).
The box also has the il Meneghello hot wax seal
Price: €60. (Euro
In the handcrafted box & set versions, the deck artwork is glued on thick cardstock with paper wrapping around to the front and folded down at each corner, giving it an antique look and feel. Cards in this more reasonably priced standard set are printed on semi-gloss, textured cardstock
View other fabulous Tarot deck & box sets designed by Osvaldo:
22 'Massonici' (interpretation of Masonic symbology)
~ As of late 2011
Lettere Ebraiche in 22 Arcani Tarocchi
~ From spring 2010
Futurismo "Numero 2"
- Created January 2010
The original
'22 Arcani Futuristi'
, created in 2009
22 Arcani in 22 Numeri
, 2008
Tarocchi Metaforici
, designed in 2008
Insetti in 22 Arcani Tarocchi
, created in 2007
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