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Sebastian Comas y Ricart, Barcelona

Published October 20, 1997 Updated April 12, 2026

“El Ciervo” standard Catalan-type pack made in Barcelona by Sebastian Comas y Ricart, c.1905-10.

1910 SpainNaipes Comas NEGSAEl Ciervo

“El Ciervo”, Sebastian Comas y Ricart, Barcelona, c.1910

caballo de bastos as de oros sota de oros rey de espadas
rey de bastos 4 de copas sota de espadas caballo de copas

Above: 8 cards from “El Ciervo” standard Catalan-type pack made in Barcelona by Sebastian Comas y Ricart, c.1905-10. The ace of coins shows a decorated base or plinth supporting various trophies evoking maritime trade and prosperity: an anchor, a caduceus, a cornucopia, a barrel, a large medallion or shield displaying a crowned head, and flags, all topped by a crown.

This design was exported extensively to South America and adopted by Cia Gral Fósforos/Cia Fabril Financiera as their house-style for “Angelito”, “Domador” and “Victoria” brands in the 1930s. It has been copied by many others since then.

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By Simon Wintle

Spain • 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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