Tarot on display in Bergamo: the Colleoni deck and the legacy of the

Tarot on display in Bergamo: the Colleoni deck and the legacy of the Arcana

The Accademia Carrara in Bergamo hosts an exhibition that retraces the artistic and symbolic development of tarot cards, centering on a notable achievement: the partial reunification of the Colleoni deck's dispersed groups. The show proposes historical, visual and contextual readings of cards made in the mid-15th century.

Highlights

• Cards attributed to the workshop of Bonifacio Bembo and other Lombard painters of the period.
• The 22 Major Arcana alongside examples of the Minor Arcana presented as finely crafted miniatures.
• Contextual materials such as period books, editorial projects and displays on heraldic and symbolic uses in Renaissance courts.

Why it matters

The Colleoni deck is among the most complete surviving historical tarot sets. Its dispersal and later reunification highlight the changing life of these objects: from courtly commissions to modern collector interest, offering insight into patronage, symbolism and pictorial style between International Gothic and early Renaissance.

Historical and iconographic notes

Many cards are linked to a Lombard workshop active in the latter half of the 15th century. Motifs such as the radiant sun and interlaced rings point to heraldic emblems and mottos used by noble families and rulers, helping to identify possible commissioners and political contexts.

Structure of a traditional deck

• Major Arcana: 22 allegorical cards (e.g., The Magician, Justice, Death, The World).
• Minor Arcana: 56 cards divided into four suits (Coins, Cups, Swords, Batons), including court cards and numbered cards.
• Historical variation: in the 15th century there was no single fixed canon; different decks show iconographic and numerical differences.

Exhibition layout

The display emphasizes close viewing, underlining the small scale and fine workmanship of the cards. The route moves from the origin of imagery to modern receptions, including sections on 20th-century editorial projects that renewed interest in historic tarot decks.

Practical information

• Venue: Accademia Carrara, Bergamo.
• Dates: on view until 2 June 2026.
• Tips: works are small and detailed—allow time for labels and the bibliography area.

This exhibition suits visitors interested in late Gothic and early Renaissance art history, iconography enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the material and cultural history of tarot beyond divinatory uses.