The Times of Kamehameha The Great

It was during the reign of Kamehameha I (1753-1819) that the Hawaiian Islands were united and the Kingdom of Hawaii was established. The court cards represent different kings of the islands, their wives and a daughter, and four kahunas (experts in their roles as priests, artist-carvers, medical practitioners, house builders, canoe makers, etc.). On the Aces are local birds (S), fish (D), plants (H), and reef fauna and flora (C). Aspects of everyday life are pictured on the 2s and 6s, with further small decorative elements on all the remaining pip cards. The Jokers depict a sitting hula (dance) and a conch blower. The artist, Joseph Feher (1908-1987), was born in Hungary but lived and worked in Hawaii for many years. He was well known for his landscapes of Hawaii.

Above: The Times of Kamehameha The Great playing cards depicting figures from Hawaiian history and scenes of everyday life designed by Hungarian-born artist Joseph Feher (1908-1987). Maker unknown, 1984. 52 cards + 2 Jokers + leaflet in plastic box. Size: 57.5 x 89 mm.

The box is quite plain. The leaflet is one piece of paper which folds out.