Cult of Tarot Forum

My very first Lenormand deck just arrived in the post and it is so tiny. I didn't expect that.

It's not a problem, its very cute but I was wondering if there is a recognized standard size for Lenormand like there is for Tarot.

Lenormand decks are always smaller because you will want to lay them all out at once sooner or later, in a Grand Tableau Besides, you need only the most basic information, there is no need for a wealth of details, symbols, narrative hints etc. A dog is a dog is a dog. Nothing else.

There are some bigger Lenormands but the typical deck is quite diminutive. And your new Blue Owl is as typical as it can get. Great deck btw, it was my first, too, and I still prefer it to all the others.

Nemia wrote: ↑01 Jun 2018, 15:32 Lenormand decks are always smaller because you will want to lay them all out at once sooner or later, in a Grand Tableau

That makes a lot of sense! I had wondered how big of a table I would need for a Grand Tableau.

I was really surprised when I got the Gravenchase. I thought Ly had sent me the wrong size. It is bridge size and quite small next to the Lorthrop but I realise now the Gravenchase is a normal size Lenormand, it's the Lorthrop that is really large! Ciro's Gilded Reverie is large too for a Lenormand I think?

There are lots of people who like the minis a lot, too. They travel well and don't require a dining room table for a Grand Tableau.

The Astounding Lenormand comes in a tin and is bridge-sized, and I learned that it's just par for the course for Lenormand decks.

I also have the Golden Lenormand Oracle and it's BIG.

Yes, bridge sized is standard. I love bridge sized. And minis are the best. I always keep a mini in a little drawstring bag in my wallet, behind my ID, bank card, etc. It barely takes up any space at all. I forget all about it until I need it.

I can understand big cards for people with certain vision problems. And for "showpiece" Tarot decks with tons of detail. (I love my oversized Tarot of Prague. But I seldom purchase Tarots bigger than the standard size. I just thought this particular edition of the Prague was gorgeous. It lives in its own wooden box and stays home, it's not the kind of deck I'd throw in my bag and go running around with.)

A Lenormand isn't improved by that level of detail - rather, it should be almost stark. So smaller is better with Lenormand. It's practical, like a pocketknife or a comb. Something I use and like to keep handy, not something showy to be admired.

Here's a card each from the Prague, the Vamp (pretty standard Tarot sized), a bridge sized Wust Lenormand, and a Game of Hope mini. That mini is actually a bit wider than my other minis, since the standard one is poker sized, but you get the idea: