A Model for the Image. The Magician of the Visconti Tarot

Abstract

This article presents an iconological analysis of a playing card from the 15th century deck now known as the Visconti Tarot. This card became named The Magician following the reiterated use of the iconographic motive in later tarot decks. Earlier and contemporary iconographic models of this card have been found in images from manuscripts and prints with astrological, alchemical and symbolic contents dating from the 14th and the 15th centuries. The present study considers the importance these traditions had in the cultural development of the early Italian Renaissance.