Lithuanian Playing Cards

Playing Cards from Lithuania

Lietuvos Lošimo Kortos

Lithuania is the largest and most southerly of the three Baltic republics. The history of Lithuania has close ties with that of Poland, its neighbour to the southwest. By the end of the 18th century most of the country came under the Russian empire. During the periods of Soviet rule, Lithuanians relied on Catholic tradition and memories of independence to preserve their national identity, a skill mastered through centuries of foreign domination. Pagan traditions with roots stretching back centuries have been kept alive too.

The independent Lithuanian state was reestablished in 1918. After World War II the printing industry was nationalized by the Soviet administration.

During the short period of independence (c.1920-1940) Lithuanian printers produced some striking playing card designs in a range of artistic styles. Their unique artwork depicts national heroes, folklore and symbolism, evoking Lithuania's political history and struggle for national identity. Chief amongst these manufacturers was the Spindulys Printing Company (Aktiengesellschaft Spindulys, Kaunas, founded in 1928) which at one time also housed the national mint.

Above: Historical Playing Cards by Spindulys, c.1930   see more →

Above: Klubams by Spindulys Printing House, c.1930   see more →

Above: Lithuanian Vaivorykštė playing cards   see more →

Above: Lithuanian ‘Gironda’ Political Playing Cards   see more →

Above: Gedimino Stulpai by Spindulys Printing House, c.1930   see more →

Above: Kunigaiksciai by Spindulys Printing House, c.1930   see more →

Above: Pilys, Lithuanian Castles Playing Cards   see more →

Above: Dviracio Kortos, Lithuanian Satirical Playing Cards   see more →