A Motley Pack
A book titled “On The Cards” or “A Motley Pack” by Garnet Walch (1843-1913) was published in Melbourne (Australia) and illustrated by George Gordon McCrae in 1875.
A Christmas Annual titled “On The Cards” or “A Motley Pack” by the Australian writer, dramatist and publisher Garnet Walch (1843-1913, ) was published in Melbourne in 1875. The book contains 71 pages with 40 transformed playing cards illustrated by the Scottish born poet and man of letters George Gordon McCrae (1833-1927, ) which are relevant to the story in the book. McCrae’s drawing style could be described as “lively and competent sketches in pen and ink which aptly illustrate the scenes being described.” George McCrae also wrote novels, stories, poetry, travel sketches and illustrated books. Some of his sketches may have been inspired by his travels to Mauritius and the Seychelles, as well as by Aboriginal people.
Title page from book.
See also: Biography of Garnet Walch→
George Gordon McCrae b. 29 May 1833→
Facsimile edition of book and cards available from Guru Playing Card Company►
By Barney Townshend
Member since October 06, 2015
Retired Airline Pilot, interested in: Transformation Playing Cards, Karl Gerich and Elaine Lewis. Secretary of the EPCS. Treasurer of the IPCS.
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