Gaucho Naipes
‘Gaucho’ Spanish-suited deck, anonymous manufacturer, made in Argentina, 2001.
Gaucho Spanish-suited deck made in Argentina, 2001. The four suit symbols represent characteristic items from Argentine culture, such as the mate gourd and the facón, whilst the name 'Mandinga' for the 2 jokers is a synonym for the devil in Argentinean folklore. The sun shown on the ace coins is the sun found on the Argentinean national flag and represents the first coin minted after Independence of the United Provinces of the River Plate in 1812, a symbol of national identity.
Above: ‘Gaucho’ spanish-suited deck, anonymous manufacturer, made in Argentina, 2001. 48 cards + 2 jokers in box. The name 'Mandinga' for the 2 jokers is a synonym for the devil in Argentinean folklore.
By Simon Wintle
Member since February 01, 1996
I am the founder of The World of Playing Cards (est. 1996), a website dedicated to the history, artistry and cultural significance of playing cards and tarot. Over the years I have researched various areas of the subject, acquired and traded collections and contributed as a committee member of the IPCS and graphics editor of The Playing-Card journal. Having lived in Chile, England, Wales, and now Spain, these experiences have shaped my work and passion for playing cards. Amongst my achievements is producing a limited-edition replica of a 17th-century English pack using woodblocks and stencils—a labour of love. Today, the World of Playing Cards is a global collaborative project, with my son Adam serving as the technical driving force behind its development. His innovative efforts have helped shape the site into the thriving hub it is today. You are warmly invited to become a contributor and share your enthusiasm.
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