Kriegs-Spiel by Peter Schencken, Amsterdam
Peter Schencken of Amsterdam copied the "Jeu de la Guerre" or "Das Kriegs-Spiel" (with German captions) originated by Gilles de La Boissière and published by Mariette in 1668 in Paris.
Das Kriegs-Spiel by Peter Schencken, Amsterdam, c.1670
Educational pack for the Art of War
Non-standard cards made in the Netherlands were notable principally for their educational, political, humorous and artistic characteristics. Peter Schencken of Amsterdam copied the "Jeu de la Guerre" or "Das Kriegs-Spiel" (with German captions) originated by Gilles de La Boissière (engraver) and first published by Mariette in 1668 in Paris. These games are usually found as uncut sheets suitable for some table game using dice, rather than a game of cards. Recorded as still being printed in the 18th century.
Above: uncut sheet printed from finely engraved copper plates by Peter Schencken, Amsterdam, c.1670.
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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