Martín Fierro
Naipes “Martín Fierro” based on the epic poem by José Hernandez.
Martín Fierro was created by José Hernandez (1834-1886) in 1872, and today ranks as the highest achievement in Argentinean romantic Gaucho literature and poetry. Rooted in popular oral poetry, it has become something like a national poem. Hernandez was involved in many spheres of activity during his life, including the newspaper industry, government, education and banking. Several passages of his epic poem are written in the local gaucho dialect: the narrative touches upon issues such as the fight for freedom against adversity and injustice, love for humanity, truth and integrity, all aptly expressed in the drawings and overall slightly sombre presentation in this deck of playing cards.
Above: Naipes "Martín Fierro", 48 cards + 2 jokers in presentation box. Anonymous manufacturer, made in Argentina, 2000. Artistically well-conceived design, plastic coated cards, rounded corners. Each card features a six-line stanza from the epic poem by José Hernandez, accompanied by illustrations of gaucho life and a miniature spanish-suited playing card in the top left-hand corner. The reverse design features mate gourds.
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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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