Egbert Moehsnang
The suit signs and indices are clear and easily recognisable, and each suit has a different predominant colour. The juxtaposition of traditional craft techniques with abstract modern design could be seen as postmodern.
Egbert Moehsnang: ‘Abstract Bridge’
Using XV century card making technology, i.e. copperplate engraving, Egbert Moehsnang (b.1927- ) follows the tradition of master craftsmen and artists who create original playing card designs. Moehsnang allows his creative freedom full expression in these “Abstract Bridge” cards which were first produced in a limited edition of 80 hand-made sets. Later the cards were printed by AGM Müller in 1978.
It doesn't matter if you hold the cards up-side-down. The suit signs and indices are clear and easily recognisable, and each suit has a different predominant colour. The juxtaposition of traditional craft techniques with abstract modern design could be seen as postmodern i.e. based on the view that reality is not mirrored in human understanding, but is constructed as the mind tries to understand its own personal reality...
See also: Jass Allemand.
Above: “Abstract Bridge” playing cards, printed from copperplate engravings and hand-coloured with stencils by Egbert Moehsnang, c.1975.
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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