Ganesh

Karl Gerich No.35: ‘Ganesh’  (formerly ‘Cartes Indiennes’)

Karl's ‘Ganesh’ pack has the four Aces with the suit sign in a circle delicately decorated with flowers and double-ended court figures wearing Indian dress. All cards have narrow double border lines. Hand-coloured copperplate etchings.

Above: Karl Gerich's ‘Ganesh’ playing cards No.35, published in 1992. 32 cards + Joker; 51mm x 86mm. The deck is based on an unpublished English design from c.1925.

The Joker is a single-ended Ganesha holding an ace in each hand. Ganesha is widely revered by Hindus as the remover of obstacles and more generally as patron of arts and sciences, and the deva of intellect and wisdom. He is shown here holding all the Aces. The Sevens have animal vignettes (peacocks, elephants, tigers & oxen).

References:

♣ Tregear, Mike and Daphne, "Karl Gerich: Card Designer and Maker", privately published.