The images are deceptively simple, almost child like, the detailed background holds a wealth of symbolism Rider Tarot Deck is the most popular Tarot deck in use today. For many years it has been known as the Rider-Waite-Smith, Waite-Smith, Waite-Colman Smith or simply the Rider deck. The images were drawn by artist Pamela Colman Smith, to the instructions of A.E. Waite and published by the Rider Company. The images are deceptively simple, almost child like, the detailed background holds a wealth of symbolism. 78 card tarot deck. The cards, including the 56 Minor Arcana, depict full scenes with figures and symbols. This feature has made the Rider-Waite Tarot the basis for the designs of many century decks.