| The Celtic Cross spread is one of the most popular Tarot spreads, providing varied insight into many aspects of a complex situation and your role in it. The Russian Tarot of Saint Petersburg is the final commissioned work of Yuri Shakov, a master in the lost art of Russian miniature painting. The rich, dark images lend themselves to questions regarding the struggle of the human spirit in trying times. If you would like your own copy of the Russian Tarot of Saint Petersburg, you can buy it now! |
 | The card not shown but at the center of the cross, represents the atmosphere surrounding the central issue. Five of Swords (Defeat), when reversed: Uncertain outlook. Chance of loss or defeat. Weakness. Possible misfortune misfalling a friend. Seduction. Burial. |
 | The card visible at the center of the cross represents the obstacle that stands in your way - it may even be something that sounds good but is not actually to your benefit. The Hierophant: Ritualism. Mercy. Kindness. Forgiveness. Inspiration. Compassion. Servitude. Inactivity. Timidity. Captivity to ones own ideas. Tendency to cling to outdated ideas and principles. Conformity. A religious or spiritual leader. |
 | The card at the top of the cross represents your goal, or the best you can achieve without a dramatic change of priorities. King of Coins, when reversed: Corruption. Using any means to achieve the desired end. Vice. Avarice. Unfaithfulness. An old and vicious man. Peril. Thriftlessness. |
 | The card at the bottom of the cross represents the foundation on which the situation is based. Strength, when reversed: Weakness. Pettiness. Impotence. Sickness. Lack of faith. Abuse of power. Succumbing to temptation. Indifference. |
 | The card at the left of the cross represents a passing influence or something to be released. Eight of Clubs (Swiftness), when reversed: Thorns of dispute. Jealousy. Harassment. Stagnation. Domestic quarrels. |
 | The card at the right of the cross represents an approaching influence or something to be embraced. Eight of Coins (Prudence), when reversed: Lack of ambition. Vanity. Conceit. Disillusionment. Usury. Hypocrisy. Flattery. Intrigue. |
 | The card at the base of the staff represents your role or attitude. Nine of Swords (Cruelty): Concern. Miscarriage. Anxiety over a loved one. Despair. |
 | The card second from the bottom of the staff represents your environment and the people you are interacting with. Four of Swords (Truce), when reversed: Activity. Circumspection. Precaution. Economy. Guarded advancement. Desire to recover what is lost. |
 | The card second from the top of the staff represents your hopes, fears, or an unexpected element that will come into play. The Hermit, when reversed: Imprudence. Hastiness. Rashness. Prematurity. Incorrect advice. Failure caused by dullness. Over-prudence causes unnecessary delays. |
 | The card at the top of the staff represents the ultimate outcome should you continue on this course. Seven of Cups (Temptation), when reversed: Desire. Determination. Strong willpower. A goal nearly attained. Intelligent choice. |
