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The History of Playing Cards

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The History of Playing Cards

Playing Cards have been around in Europe since the 1370s. Some early packs were hand painted works of art which were expensive and affordable only by the wealthy. But as demand increased cheaper methods of production were discovered so that playing cards became available for everyone...

About History

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United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Playing cards first arrived in England during the 15th century, but none have survived from such an early date.

Unsun Karuta

Unsun Karuta

Unsun Karuta うんすんかるた Japan c.1780.

  • 1780
Why our playing-cards look the way they do

Why our playing-cards look the way they do

Analysis of early playing card designs: origins, suit differences, standardization, technological advancements and key innovations leading to modern designs.

William Warter

William Warter

William Warter's Proverbial Cards, which carry illustrations of old English proverbs, were first published in 1698.

  • 1698
XV Century Catalan playing cards

XV Century Catalan playing cards

XV Century Catalan Playing Cards, featuring four female Sotas, four Aces and four cards from the suit of batons.

  • 1490
XV Century Italian Playing Cards

XV Century Italian Playing Cards

Cards from a pack of an early form of north Italian playing cards, with the swords back-to-back and curved outwards. Believed to be Venetian, dated 1462.

  • 1462
XVII Century Engraved Animal Cards

XVII Century Engraved Animal Cards

Anonymous French-suited German engraved cards c1610 to 1650.

  • 1650