Starościanka
“Starościanka” playing cards manufactured by KZWP-Trefl (Poland).
Starościanka No.470
“Starościanka No.470” playing cards manufactured by KZWP-Trefl (Poland) in 1998. The designs are in a fantasy medieval style. “Starościanka” translates as “The Governor’s Daughter”.
Above: cards from uncut sheet of “Starościanka” playing cards manufactured by KZWP-Trefl (Poland), 2003
Above: uncut sheet of “Starościanka” playing cards containing two complete sets of 52 cards + 3 jokers, manufactured by KZWP-Trefl (Poland), 2003
Earlier Patience edition - from Roddy Somerville
The designs were issued by KZWP in 1979 (or earlier) as Starościanka Patience cards. This older printing was not as sharp - fuzzy, in fact. It was less easy to see the detail: the detail on the horse's caparison on the more modern printing is much finer (probably completely redrawn). See the box►
Above: “Starościanka” patience cards, 1979. Images and extra research courtesy Roddy Somerville.
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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