The 22 Keys of the Tarot (1957) – Arland Ussher | Signed, First Edition, 32/50 | Hand-Coloured | Illustrated by MacWeeney | Dolmen Press

Step into the esoteric world of Irish mysticism with this rare, signed and hand-coloured edition of The XXII Keys of the Tarot, a beautifully illustrated guide to the Major Arcana by Anglo-Irish essayist Arland Ussher (1899–1980). Published in 1957 by Dublin’s renowned Dolmen Press, this book embodies a unique literary and occult heritage tied to W.B. Yeats and his circle.

Illustrator Leslie MacWeeney began working with the Dolmen Press in 1954. She later served as secretary to Anne Yeats (daughter of W.B. Yeats), assisted with the archives of Jack B. Yeats, and worked closely with figures linked to the Cuala Press. Her 22 tarot designs are based primarily on a deck Ussher acquired in Paris.

Two key illustrations, La Papesse (The High Priestess) and Le Pape (The Hierophant), were uniquely copied from cards owned by Georgie Yeats, wife of W.B. Yeats and an influential figure in Irish esoteric circles. These images hold particular historical and symbolic significance.

Intended as a limited edition of 250, only 50 were to be signed and hand-coloured. According to MacWeeney, post-war shortages halted production, making the finished coloured copies exceptionally rare.

This is copy No. 32 of 50, signed by Arland Ussher and hand-coloured throughout. The signature and limitation number are shown in the photographs.

Condition: Clean interior, tightly bound. A beautifully preserved collector’s copy, please see photographs.