Rococco
Designed by Josef Maria Melchior Annen (1868-1954) who also designed several other packs for Müller & Cie.
“Rococco” designed by Melchior Annen
Rococo (or “Rococco”) was a style in the decorative arts characterized by elaborate but graceful ornamentation which originated in France and was widely used in Europe in the 18th century. It has been popular with playing card designers, including versions produced by Dondorf and Piatnik. This version was designed by artist, illustrator and graphic designer Josef Maria Melchior Annen (1868-1954) who designed several packs for Müller & Cie. Flamboyant clothing as well as vanity mirrors, duelling pistols, bouquets, wigs, fans and so on all evoke the era.
Also by Melchior Annen: Humanist Bridge • Richard Wagner • Casino.
Above: 'Rococco' playing cards designed by Melchior Annen, printed by Müller & Cie, c.1920s. Two different types of indices are known, but we are unsure of the dates. Patience versions were also produced.
Above: Patience No.98 based on “Rococco” designs.
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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