Sentinels Playing Cards by Jeffrey Bucholtz

Published January 23, 2014 Updated July 17, 2023

A pack illustrated by Jeffrey Bucholtz inspired by ancient Egypt’s religious and philosophical system of Hermeticism.

2014 USA Theory11 Jeffrey Bucholtz Astronomy

Artist alliance of the magic industry Theory11 collaborated with Jeffrey Bucholtz lead illustrator for San Francisco based design agency Hatch. Hatch designs much of the branding for Coca-Cola, American Eagle, Pixar, and even JAQK Cellars!

Theory11 were looking to create a limited-edition deck of cards focused on Hellenistic Egypt’s religious and philosophical system of Hermeticism.

The royal court represents the three parts of wisdom – alchemy is represented by the jacks, astronomy by the queens, for example , and theurgy by the kings. The fundamental elements of alchemy: earth, fire, water, and air were applied to the suits.

Check out more of Jeffery's artwork on his portfolio website; and you can buy the pack from the Theory11 website.

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By Adam Wintle

Member since March 15, 1997

Adam has been involved in developing the site as well as reviewing new decks and conducting research. He is particularly interested in innovation, Kickstarter and East Asian cards. He is a member of the IPCS and webmaster of the EPCS.

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