Russian Playing Cards

The earliest Russian playing cards probably followed German models. In 1817 the Imperial Playing-Card Factory (Leningrad) was founded and it played a benevolent role by channelling revenues to the Imperial Foundling Hospitals. The tax stamp on the ace of diamonds depicted a pelican nurturing its young.

In the 19th century, England was the principal exporter of playing cards to Russia and the name of De La Rue figures prominently in this connection. Factories were established in Russia in the second half of the century.
Russian Standard playing cards Russian Standard playing cards


RUSSIAN STANDARD PATTERN PLAYING CARDS, c.1820
Ace of hearts on Vodka bottle with whip Russian Monarch Playing Cards


RUSSIAN MONARCH PLAYING CARDS, 1909
Simultane by Sonia Delaunay Simultane by Sonia Delaunay


SIMULTANÉ PLAYING CARDS BY SONIA DELAUNAY, 1964
   

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