The Original Petit Etteilla

“The Original Petit Etteilla is a wonderfully presented and approachable introduction to a historic card-reading system. The ‘Framing Your Question’ chapter is especially helpful, setting the tone for meaningful readings. The clear explanations and charming artwork make it easy to learn and a joy to use. I highly recommend this card deck to anyone looking to broaden their cartomancy practice.” * Jen Sankey, author of Enchanted Forest Felines Tarot and Manifesting by the Moon *
“A welcome, in-depth guide for both newcomers and those already focused on the process of understanding the meaning of reading the cards within the Etteilla system. The Original Petit Etteilla is a captivating read. A must-have for tarot enthusiasts, historians, and practitioners alike, this historical guide offers a beautifully written and detailed explanation of what can often be seen as a complex reading style.” * Kim Arnold, founder of the UK Tarot Conference and author of Tarot Made Easy *
“The Original Petit Etteilla is a deep dive into a cartomancy system that laid the groundwork for other methods, including my own beloved Lenormand. In this book, appropriately referred to as a ‘course’ by Caitlín Matthews, you will learn the history, lore, and methodology behind the Petit Etteilla created by occultist Jean Baptiste Alliette in the late 18th century. If you are curious about how playing cards can show us the story of our lives, this book is the place to start, and it pays homage to who and what started it all.” * Erika Robinson, author of The Language of Lenormand *
“The Original Petit Etteilla is an important link between older tarots and modern cartomancy. Caitlín and Rebecca have created a masterful guide, a rare gem that brings depth, clarity, and historical insights to this wonderful tarot. This guide is a wealth of wisdom, the only resource you need to understand this system.” * Serge Pirotte, author of Mastering the Oracle Belline *
“The Original Petit Etteilla casts fresh eyes on a delightful but long-ignored deck. The cards have been given a wonderful, clean, modern look without detracting from the original source, and the book is a thoroughly comprehensive storehouse of wisdom. Perfect for divination enthusiasts, both old and new alike.” * Tara Sanchez, professional tarot reader and author of Urban Faery Magick *
“In this accessible step-by-step guide, Caitlín Matthews intertwines her translation of Etteilla’s 1773 French text with her suggestions on using the Petit Etteilla method, making it relevant to the 21st-century diviner, with the lessons expanding Etteilla’s text and spreads. Elegantly designed by Rebecca Birrell, The Original Petit Etteilla is a must for any cartomancer looking to expand their divination skills.” * Mascha Coetzee, cartomancer and deck reviewer at Musings by Mascha YouTube Channel *
“Caitlín Matthews has skillfully prepared this translated version of the rare Petit Etteilla fortune-telling system, making it easy to understand and accessible for both seasoned readers and newcomers eager to explore cartomancy. Rebecca Birrell’s beautiful cards offer printed meanings for added support. Discover how to predict for yourself and others, and design your deck following Etteilla’s instructions!” * Jozefa ‘Madame Seaqueen,’ owner of Ask My Cards Blog *
“Lovely full-color designs by Rebecca Birrell and lively, engaging text by Caitlín Matthews. A veritable gift for fans of playing card history, designers, collectors, and readers, to name a few. I can dip in for a fun taste or dive deeper and easily engage with intricate Etteilla-style inspirations.” * Mari Hoshizaki, creative and movement arts instructor *