Tarot of Shadows – Таро теней

Tarot of Shadows (Таро Теней) is one of the best-known and most sought-after occult decks of the Russian tarot school. Created by V. A. Sklyarova and illustrated by O. Vasilchenko, it is designed for in-depth work with the shadow aspects of human nature, hidden energetic influences and occult processes that often remain invisible to traditional Tarot decks.

At the heart of the Tarot of Shadows are images drawn from classical demonology, mythology, medieval legends, alchemy and the Western esoteric tradition. Each card presents a particular archetype, spirit, symbol or mystical story, revealing the forces at work behind visible reality. Rather than predicting the future in the usual way, the deck turns attention to the causes behind a situation, to hidden motives, psychological patterns and the energies that influence a person’s life.

The Tarot of Shadows is especially valued by experienced tarot readers because it works with exceptional precision when analysing negative influences, inner conflicts, fears, addictions, destructive behaviour patterns and complex life situations. It does not soften its messages or try to reassure. The cards show the truth directly, which makes the deck a powerful tool for professional diagnostics and deep spiritual work.

Although the images are inspired by the world of demonology and the occult, their purpose is not to instil fear. On the contrary – they help a person recognise their own “shadow”, understand where certain problems come from and what is needed to restore inner balance. That is why the Tarot of Shadows is often used as a complementary deck alongside classical Tarot systems when deeper analysis is needed.

This rare deck is favoured by occultists, magicians and experienced tarot readers looking for a tool capable of revealing the invisible layers of a situation. Thanks to its rich symbolism and unusual approach, the Tarot of Shadows has for years been regarded as one of the most powerful specialised decks in the world of esotericism and rightly holds a special place in connoisseurs’ collections.

Author: V. A. Sklyarova

Artist: O. Vasilchenko

Set: 78 cards

Card language: Russian

Card size: 145 × 90 mm

Year: 2003

Tradition: Unique

Numbering: from 1 to 78

Category: Demonology • Occult Tarot • Shadow Work