Tarot by Claude Burdel (Limited Edition) by Yves Reynaud

The Tarot by Claude Burdel is widely regarded as the finest Swiss interpretation of the Tarot de Marseille tradition. Created in 1751 by master card maker and engraver Claude Burdel in Fribourg, Switzerland, this deck exemplifies the refinement and regional character of Swiss tarot production during the 18th century. Distinguished by its elegant hand-colored woodcuts and distinctive iconographic details, it represents a high point in the adaptation of the Marseille pattern beyond France.

This limited edition is based on the original deck preserved in the MuCEM—Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations—in Marseilles, France. The deck is notable for the maker's signatures: Burdel's initials appear on The Chariot, while his full name, profession, and date are inscribed on the 2 of Coins as "CLAUDE · BURDEL · CARTIER · ET · GRAVEUR · 1751." The deck was later reworked and reprinted by Baptiste Paul Grimaud in the 19th century, underscoring its enduring influence.

Historical Context & Structure The deck follows the traditional Tarot de Marseille structure:

• 22 Major Arcana with classic Marseille imagery
• 56 Minor Arcana divided into Cups, Coins, Batons, and Swords
• 78 cards in total, featuring characteristic Swiss production elements of the period

The hand-colored woodcuts display a vibrant palette and careful execution that distinguish this deck from its French counterparts while maintaining fidelity to the Marseille tradition.

Production Quality

• Card size: 2½ × 4 9/16 inches (64 × 116 mm)
• Print quality: High-resolution facsimile that faithfully reproduces the original hand-colored woodcut technique, capturing both the vivid colors and fine engraved lines
• Cardstock: Durable stock suitable for study and use; intentionally left unsealed to preserve authentic handling characteristics
• Packaging: Includes a facsimile reproduction of the original packing envelope, housed within a sturdy two-piece keepsake box
• Included materials: 2 presentation cards (English and French) providing historical context and edition details
• Edition: Limited to 3,000 numbered copies

About the Reproduction This edition was realized by Yves Reynaud and Wilfried Houdouin of Tarot de Marseille Heritage, who have dedicated themselves to producing museum-quality facsimiles of the most important historical Tarot de Marseille decks. Each reproduction is created with utmost respect for the original edition, preserving both its artistic integrity and cultural significance.

For Collectors, Historians, and Practitioners The Tarot by Claude Burdel is particularly suited to:

• Collectors seeking the finest example of Swiss Tarot de Marseille craftsmanship
• Researchers studying regional variations and the evolution of 18th-century tarot imagery
• Practitioners desiring an authentic historical deck for traditional cartomantic work
• Anyone interested in the intersection of Swiss and French card-making traditions