Transformation Playing Cards, 1811

ransformation playing cards, first published in 1811, in which each card bears a picture in which the suit marks are concealed within the design. It is supposed that this artistic exercise began as a late 18th century parlour game.

The first printed 52-card Transformation pack was published in Germany in 1804 and others followed soon afterwards. A facsimile of the pack shown here is published by Harry Margary. See also Cries of London.

Cards from the facsimile edition courtesy Giles de Margary.
Packs can be ordered directly from www.harrymargary.com