Art in Playing Cards, page 4
ENGRAVED PLAYING CARDS | |||
![]() | |||
![]() |
The earliest known engraved pictures all came from German-speaking regions, north of the Alps, starting around c.1400. Copper-engraved playing cards were also produced, employing the skills of the engraver and goldsmith, with great detail in the designs. At this time the German card makers were also indulging in a lot of experimentation with different suit systems.
See also: Tarocchi di Mantegna |
![]() |
![]() |

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.
Related Articles
Most Popular
Our top articles from the past 28 days