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Talia - XVI of Mantegna Tarot

Talia - XVI

The Muse of Comedy and Bucolic Poetry
(The Blossoming One)

Talia (Thalia) is the muse of comedy and bucolic song, dance and poetry. It is remarkable that in this card, the typical sphere that accompanies all muses is missing. Perhaps this was meant as a hint to her pasternal and rural realms.

Her name derives from the Greek word 'Thaleia' meaning 'rich festivity' and/or 'blooming'. She is often depicted with a comic mask, a shepherd's staff and a wreath of ivy. The artist omitted the mask and the staff, but therefore we have lots of ivy.



Next card: XVII Melpomene, Muse of Tragedy