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Baraja Edad Media

Published April 09, 2012 Updated June 20, 2022

Baraja Edad Media, fantasy Spanish-suited medieval playing cards published Mas-Reynals, Barcelona, 1993. Designed by M. Malé and illustrated by V. Maza.

1993 SpainArt & DesignFantasyMedievalM. MaléV. MazaMas-ReynalsVaritemasSpanish Suited

Baraja Edad Media, 1993

Mas-Reynals / Varitemas S.L., Vilassar de Mar, Barcelona, Spain

This fantasy Spanish-suited medieval pack of playing cards was published by Mas-Reynals in 1993, designed by M. Malé and illustrated by V. Maza. This follows a tradition amongst many manufacturers of producing a fantasy medieval design. The firm was founded in 1989 by Miguel Mas Reynals and today trades as Varitemas, S.L. producing a range of paper products including folders, albums, playing cards, etc. Earlier decks have the name ‘Mas-Reynals’, but today Varitemas S.L. produce a range of decks including Poker, Spanish-suited, souvenir packs, miniature cards and children's card games.

Baraja Edad Media, Mas Reynals, Barcelona, 1993

Above: Baraja Edad Media, fantasy Spanish-suited medieval playing cards published Mas-Reynals, 48 cards + Joker, Barcelona, 1993. The backs are plain red. Captions on the Ace of Coins state that the cards were designed by M. Malé and illustrated by V. Maza.

detail from Personajes medievales jugando a naipes by Luis Taberner Montalvo, c.1880. Museo del Prado, Madrid

Above: detail from Personajes medievales jugando a naipes by Luis Taberner Montalvo, c.1880. Museo del Prado, Madrid.

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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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