Ace Of Cups Schaffhouse Tarot 1890

Authentication & Provenance Document

Card Name: As de Coupe (Ace of Cups)

Deck Title: Tarot de Marseille - Schaffhouse Edition

Date of Manufacture: Circa 1890

Origin: Schaffhausen (Schaffhouse), Switzerland

Language: French

Suit: Coupes (Cups)

Card Type: Ace

Material: Early cardstock with traditional woodblock-style printing, hand-stenciled coloration

Description & Features:

This is an original Ace of Cups from the 1890 Schaffhouse Tarot deck, a rare Swiss variant of the classic Tarot de Marseille. The card features an elaborately decorated chalice or sacred vessel, rising from a naturalistic base and crowned with a draped canopy. The vessel is flanked by symbolic foliage and rendered in rich traditional tones: red, yellow, blue, green, and orange, all applied through 19th-century stencil techniques.

The symmetrical and radiant design, devoid of human figures, emphasizes the cup as a symbol of divine receptivity, purity, and spiritual potential. The vivid coloration and strong central axis reflect a high degree of craftsmanship.

The reverse side of the card features a distinct orange, blue, and black crosshatch pattern over a yellow base—an identifying trait of Schaffhouse printings and one of the key indicators of authenticity for this deck.

Condition:

Excellent antique condition. The card shows only minor patina and gentle wear consistent with age. The image remains crisp with strong color saturation. It is preserved in a crystal-clear archival-grade case for display and protection.

Historical Context:

The Schaffhouse tarot, printed in Switzerland in the late 1800s, represents a unique evolution of the Marseille tradition. These decks are particularly valued for their expressive color schemes, intricate card backs, and faithful preservation of early woodblock aesthetics. The Ace of Cups, as the root of the suit of emotion and intuition, is a spiritually significant card and a centerpiece for collectors.

Authenticity Confirmation:

This card has been authenticated based on the following criteria:

* Authentic cardstock and age-related patina

* Period-consistent stencil coloration and central Marseille iconography

* Distinct orange, blue, and black crosshatched back design

* Comparative analysis with verified Schaffhouse specimens

Authenticated by: Nicholas C O'Donnell

Company: The Tarot Authority LLC