La Baraja

Published September 11, 2016 Updated September 11, 2019

Anonymous “La Baraja” Spanish deck, c.2005.

Argentina Medieval

Anonymous “La Baraja” Spanish deck, c.2005. The court cards are in fantasy medieval style, although the kings resemble war lords from a sci-fi movie. The suit symbols are rendered in a hyper-realistic style. See the Box

Anonymous “La Baraja” Spanish deck, c.2005
Anonymous “La Baraja” Spanish deck, c.2005 Anonymous “La Baraja” Spanish deck, c.2005 Anonymous “La Baraja” Spanish deck, c.2005

Above: Anonymous “La Baraja” Spanish deck, c.2005. 48 cards + 2 jokers in box. See also: Danubio Poker


AIDS Awareness, c.2001

Above: AIDS Awareness. Part of an education and awareness campaign funded by the Ministerio de Salud y Ambiente de la Nación, between 2001-2004, this is a 40-card version. The reverse bears the legend "Enamorarse en verano es tan fácil como cuidarse" with the Ministry logo, the hotline telephone number and three condoms.

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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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