Originally a Kickstarter project that is now published by Llewellyn, The Lubanko Tarot is a powerfully designed tarot boxed set containing 78 cards, a 244 page perfect bound guidebook written by the artist, and a small card holder/altar. All of this is tucked inside a lovely magnetic-close hinge box. According to the website, https://www.emilylubanko.com/tarot, the cards are printed on high-quality 350 gsm art paper with soft-touch matte UV varnishing finishing. The original Kick Starter deck was edged in silver, but mine is matte black.
The artwork is surrealistic, occasionally erotic, and sometimes downright macabre. The three Lovers cards are an excellent example of macabre eroticism. Some of the cards reminds me of works by artist Tom Wright, who created the paintings for the television series Night Gallery. The Tower fits into this category. If you’re a fan of spooky things like me, you’ll know what I mean. And you’ll love every minute spent with this kit.
One of the things I appreciated about this deck is that the compositions are designed to make it easier for colorblind readers to see and interpret. They’re also great for those of us with cataracts as cataracts tend to subdue color and makes it more difficult to differentiate between cards.
The 244 page guidebook is perfect bound, lavishly illustrated, and focuses on both light and shadow archetypes. The meanings are more or less traditional but the way they’re presented is innovative and highly accurate. Lubanko gave me a fresh perspective when it comes to interpretation. The symbolism and metaphors used in this guide book will pull you in, stare you down, and if needed, punch you in the face. And yes, they are perfect for shadow work.
Tucked inside the box is a credit card sized card holder, which can be used as a makeshift Tarot altar. I tried using it but found it uncooperative. Try as I might, I just couldn’t get the cards to sit in it. Of course, this was my first time trying to use one so your mileage may vary. Personally, I prefer to turn the cards the way I always do.
The Lubanko deck isn’t for beginners, or for the faint of heart. The cards and their interpretation are honest and don’t play. It’s a strong deck; one that pulls down your illusions, rips off your mask, and shoves a mirror in your face. But for those who are looking to expand their experience, enter into the realm of shadow work, and to find new ideas and thoughts that you hadn’t otherwise considered, this is the perfect deck for you.
~review By Patricia Snodgrass
Author/Artist: E. Lubanko
Llewellyn Worldwide, 2025
Boxed Tarot kit with 80 cards, 244 page guidebook and card altar, p.$29.95
