* Please note that this review is for the mini version, though I assume full-size version of the deck to be comparable in terms of quality. *
Mini deck is around the size of a standard bridge deck, only slightly smaller than a Lenormand deck. The mini version comes in a heavy, 2-piece lidded box that feels like it might be linen. Even on the smaller sized deck, the printing quality is premium, and you can appreciate the detail of each card. The cardstock is substantial and delivers a satisfying crack from a bridge shuffle.
Like most Lo Scarabeo decks, the LWB included comes in 6 languages (English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Russian), so card meanings are somewhat abbreviated. That makes it more of an intermediate deck. Like several other Lo Scarabeo decks in my collection, card meanings are narrative-based, creative interpretations rather than keywords and direct meanings (again, making this more of an intermediate deck.)
The art is just gorgeous, and falls into the category of pop surrealist painters, on par with Carrie Ann Baade, Mab Graves, Camilla d’Errico, Jasmine Beckett-Griffith, Catrin Welz-Stein, etc. However, because of this, the card images are very loose interpretations of the cards, again, making this a deck better suited for intermediates or tarot art collectors. I don’t say this to dissuade using this deck — however, it bears mentioning that it doesn’t read like a traditional RWS based deck, and it’s better to know that going in.
Overall, excellent deck for a reasonable price point. It’s lovely to look at, high-quality in its feel and finish, with a fun and friendly energy that’s unlike most decks. Not based in the traditional RWS system symbols, so know that though short, the LWB is useful to keep on hand for this one.