Humanist pack by J. Müller & Cie

Published May 29, 2004 Updated July 15, 2022

'Humanist' pack made by J. Müller & Cie (Schaffhouse), originally named 'Troubador'. The pack was designed by Melchior Annen (1868-1954) who also designed several other packs for Müller & Cie.

Switzerland Müller & Cie Melchior Annen Art & Design Humanist Troubador

“Humanist Bridge” designed by Melchior Annen (1868-1954)

“Humanist Bridge” pack made by J. Müller & Cie & Cie (Schaffhouse), originally named “Troubador”. The pack was designed by Josef Maria Melchior Annen (1868-1954) who also designed several other packs for Müller & Cie.

Also by Melchior Annen:  RococcoRichard WagnerCasino.

Humanist pack made by Müller & Cie (Schaffhouse) Humanist pack made by J. Müller & Cie (Schaffhouse)

Above: 'Humanist' pack made by J. Müller & Cie (Schaffhouse) (originally named 'Troubador'). The pack was designed by Swiss artist and illustrator Melchior Annen (1868-1954) whose output included watercolours, posters and prints, and who also designed several other packs for Müller & Cie. Double-ended 15th century costumes are depicted on the court cards.

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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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