Card Combinations With The Sibilla
Recently we’ve been working on a book of card combinations for the Spring Sibilla (based on the Vera Sibilla Italiana). Christine wrote the manuscript back in 2018 but it’s been a number of years before we’ve managed to really knuckle down and get it produced as an actual book. If you’ve been following us over the years you’ll know we’re always busy with new projects, in particular decks of cards. Sometimes projects get set aside as new ones emerge. Often it’s hard to know which project to prioritize. The time has now come to get this book officially put together!
So as I continue to work on editing / spellchecking / designing the pages for the book, I thought I would share a few of the card combinations so far, to give you an idea of how the cards will be laid out along with the upright and reverse suggestions.
3 of Cuori and 1 of Picche (Dispiacere): The imminent arrival of news that causes the client sorrow and tears. To understand the nature of that news, the client has to look at the card that "follows".
It's very important when reading a string of cards, to look at the end of the spread; if the last card is a positive card, the chances are the matter concludes or resolves itself in a good way.
With 1 of Picche (Dispiacere) Reversed: In reverse, this card actually takes on a more positive meaning mitigating the impact of bad influences. The person takes the news well and recovers quickly. The news might not even come. It might actually be the case of expecting the worst and it doesn't happen.
3 of Cuori and 11 of Picche (Il Nemico; the male enemy). The client is keeping an eye on a man meaning to do harm in some way. Being vigilant against a person who poses a threat. It could also be that the client judges the man to be an enemy. Whether he is or not will be seen in accompanying cards. Also, a warning that the client needs to be on guard against such a person. An enemy approaches.
With 11 of Picche (Il Nemico) Reversed: Danger is averted due to preparation. Recognizing a danger before any damage is done.
7 of Cuori and 4 of Quadri (Falsita): A man you should beware of. His intentions are not clear. A user or manipulator. A charlatan. He seems harmless at first but it’s all an act. A swindler. May even be a lawyer.
The card Falsita is represented by a cat; think of a cat's claws. With 4 of Quadri (Falsita) Reversed: Man is found out. The truth about his intentions is revealed. Danger is averted.
Here's another combination featuring the card of The Scholar or "La Letterato" along with the Merchant.
7 of Cuori and 13 of Quadri (Mercante): An artist who profits from his work. This combination reminds me of a writer who sells novels. Could also be an accountant or cleric.
With 13 of Quadri (Mercante)
Reversed: The artist doesn't profit by his work. His work doesn't sell. This is the starving artist combination.
Over the next few weeks we’ll share more card combinations, fresh from the pages of the book as I continue to put it together.