Jeu de Cartes de Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest and most populous island in French Polynesia. The designs on the court cards were all inspired by Polynesian history and culture. They are named “Arii” (= king or chief), “Arii Vahine” (= chief’s wife), and “Aito” (= warrior). The designer of these cards, Michèle Feltrin, studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Toulouse before teaching visual arts herself. Important sources of inspiration for her include Venice, the Greek Islands, and French Polynesia where she lived for many years. She is particularly known for her watercolours.

Above: Jeu de Cartes de Tahiti designed by Michèle Feltrin and made by Héron, Bordeaux, France, for Les Editions du Lézard, c1983. 52 cards + 2 (identical) Jokers + 1 title card in clear plastic box. Size: 57 x 87 mm.