The tarot deck referred to as 22 Arcani I Gatti (translated as 'the cats') is one of two feline-themed decks produced Menegazzi Osvaldo of Il Meneghello. I Gatti is the smaller of the two, measuring only three inches high. Printed on cream-colored card stock, this deck is considered a limited edition deck because only 2000, all numbered, were released. Black and white, this deck features cats which appear more majestic and sophisticated then the cats which appear on the large deck, usually referred to as 22 Arcani I Gatti Buffi (typically translated as 'funny cats').
Since this deck only contains the 22 cards of the Major Arcana, it's not generally used for Tarot readings. Instead, its target audience is collectors and enthusiasts who admire the beauty of cats and Tarot, especially when mixed together. Of course, you certainly can use them for readings, especially if you add the Minor Arcana from another deck, but since they are limited edition, most people who have this deck do not actually use it for Tarot readings.
The 22 Arcani Futuristi was designed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Futurist Movement. The deck was released in 2009, just in time for the anniversary itself. This Tarot deck is very limited and each deck is numbered and signed by the artist Osvaldo Menegazzi. The box the 22 Arcani Futuristi comes in is also handcrafted.
This fantastical deck features brightly colored symbols all based on the original 22 cards of the Major Arcana. There are only 22 cards in this deck, so it can be combined with the Minor Arcana from another deck for a full reading. The illustrations are lovely and mounted on a heavy cardstock. There is a dark brown paper wrapping as a backing; this backing folds around to the front of the cards so it is visible at the corners of each face, giving the deck a splendid antique look.
Because each deck is handcrafted (as well as the box), each deck and box are unique. The deck was available in three versions. The large size is approximately 6"x4". The smaller version is only 3½"x2¼". There is also a large deck that comes in a large decorated cardboard box. Its cards measure approximately 5½"x4".
This deck can be used for Tarot readings, but it is more designed for Tarot collectors and enthusiasts. Its powerful artwork makes a great addition to any collection.
Most Tarot decks have a specific theme, whether it be places, vampires, or gods. In the case of Tarocco Balocco (The Toy Tarot), the theme is nostalgic playthings. Published in 2006, this deck depicts old-fashioned toys. These are meant to trigger memories of times gone by, innocent times when we were young and ready to face the world. Tarocco Balocco contains only the 22 cards of the Major Arcana and are more designed for collectors. They can be used in a reading, however, if you combine them with one of your favorite decks.
Created by Morena Poltronieri, the Toy Tarot is numbered and titled, but in Italian. The enclosed leaflet is also in Italian, and the cards aren't as intuitive as some decks, so you may need to spend some time translating in order to fully utilize Tarocco Balocco. There were only 500 decks produced, all numbered and signed by the artist. This makes Tarocco Balocco a rare deck and perfect for Tarot enthusiasts around the world.
Some decks are based on physical locations, and Tarocchi di Lisbona (Tarot of Lisbon) is one of them. This Tarot deck, created in 2007, features some of the stunning locations found in the city of Lisbon. Designed and painted by artist Morena Poltronieri (who happens to be a co-founder of Museo dei Tarocchi), Tarocchi di Lisbona express a vivid understanding of the symbolism of the Tarot. These cards are mainly created by collage and some of them incorporate elements of the Marseilles deck into the settings, especially in the backgrounds. Bear in mind that this is a Major Arcana deck, meaning only the 22 cards of the Major Arcana are included.
Only 100 of these decks were produced, all numbered and signed by the artist. This deck was originally offered in two sizes and were packaged in a book-style sleeve cover that was pleasantly attractive. A title card is included with an explanation of the settings and inspirations for Tarocchi di Lisbona, but this card is written in Italian. This deck is more designed for enthusiasts and collectors, but it can be incorporated into a standard Tarot deck if you so desire.
