Milanese Tarot by Dotti 1862

Edoardo Dotti's 1862 Milanese Tarot is one of the finest examples of 19th-century Italian tarot production. Dotti had worked alongside the famous cardmaker Gumppenberg from 1838 to 1842, during which time he became well acquainted with the celebrated Soprafino Tarot. When he struck out on his own, he commissioned fresh engraving plates that pay obvious tribute to the Soprafino tradition while reflecting the changed political environment of the time. One of the most telling differences is the Empress card, whose shield is left empty, the imperial Hapsburg eagle having been removed as Napoleon III's influence spread through Italy. The graceful lines, rich colors, and faithful card backs of this limited edition of 900 numbered copies are accompanied by a scholarly booklet by Giordano Berti on the full history of Milanese tarot from the 15th century forward.