![Cover of Universal Waite(r) Tarot Deck/Book Set [With Book]](/img/universal-waite-r-tarot-deck-book-set-with-book-scene.webp)
About the author
Mary Hanson-Roberts is the artist who recolored Pamela Colman Smith's original Rider-Waite tarot illustrations for U.S. Games Systems, producing the Universal Waite Tarot, one of the most widely used variant editions of that deck. Her palette softened and clarified the original coloring while keeping Smith's compositions and symbolism intact, and the result has been issued in several formats carried in this catalogue: the standard Universal Waite Tarot Deck/Book Set, the Tiny Universal Waite Tarot, and the Universal Waite Pocket Tarot. Each edition reproduces the same 78-card imagery at a different scale, from a miniature deck under an inch and a half tall to a pocket-sized set in a stand-up box. Hanson-Roberts's recoloring is aimed at both new tarot readers, who often find the Universal Waite's colors easier to read than the original, and collectors seeking alternate editions of a familiar deck.
📖 Where to start with Mary Hanson-Roberts
💬 What our editors say about Mary Hanson-Roberts's books
“This set revitalizes the iconic Rider-Waite-Smith tarot with exquisite re-coloring that enhances symbolism. It is perfect for novices and experienced readers alike who value clarity and meditative depth in their practice.…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Universal Waite(r) Tarot Deck/Book Set [With Book]
“While this deck excels in portability and visual appeal, it may not suit those who prefer the historical gravitas of the original black-and-white Rider-Waite-Smith edition or larger formats for detailed study. The re-envisioned…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Tiny Universal Waite Tarot
“This edition successfully bridges the gap between historical authenticity and modern aesthetic appeal. While it serves as an excellent entry point for novices due to its enhanced clarity and portable format, it may not suit…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Universal Waite(r) Pocket Tarot
📋 Editions by Mary Hanson-Roberts in the catalog
| Edition | Year | Publisher | Pages | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Universal Waite(r) Tarot Deck/Book Set [With Book] | — | U.S. Games Systems, Inc. | — | 9780880794169 |
| Tiny Universal Waite Tarot | — | U.S. Games Systems, Inc. | — | 9781572811225 |
| Universal Waite(r) Pocket Tarot | — | U.S. Games Systems, Inc. | — | 9781572814745 |
