The first appearance of the tarot deck can be traced back to the early 15th century in Italy (if the decks were made before that time there is no known reference to them).  The cards were lavish hand painted decks made for the upper class.

 

Originally called triumph cards then later tarocchi (the deck being referenced to tarocchi around 1530), the designer(s) of the cards and the intention of the symbols selected for them is not known.  There is quite a bit of speculation but nothing can be found in writing. 

If you'd like more information then please go to The Hermitage which is dedicated to the history of tarot cards.

 

Tarot has come a long way since its origins.  The cards have an individual meaning to each person that reads them.  I use tarot as a tool of empowerment.  I believe that nothing is set in stone and we make decisions of our own free thinking and will.  A tarot reading can show you the path you are currently on and I can provide counsel and guidance to assist you with that information.