La Traviata
“La Traviata” playing cards designed by Erté, c.1985.
“La Traviata” by Erté, c.1985
This outstanding and elaborate deck designed by Erté (Romain de Tirtoff), the Russian-born Art Deco designer, was commissioned by Dunhill of London based on the theme of “La Traviata”. The court cards with French indices are reversible. That is to say that when turned end for end, a different picture is seen. Sometimes the difference is very obvious, other times it is more subtle. Erté’s real name was Romain De Tirtoff and he lived from 1892 to 1990. A major turning point in his career came in 1965, when he met Eric and Salome Estorick, the founders of Seven Arts Ltd of New York and London. Seven Arts produced this pack, and remained the exclusive agent for Erte's work until his death.
NOTE: I have always had doubts about the attribution of this pack to Carta Mundi. A.S.S. offered me some overruns without gilt edges at a time when they had no links with Carta Mundi so I always assumed that A.S.S. had printed the cards. Unfortunately, I have no further documentary proof - Roddy Somerville.
By Rod Starling
Member since January 09, 2013
Rod Starling was one of the founding members of the 52 Plus Joker card collectors club. He authored many articles for the club's quarterly newsletter, Clear the Decks. His collection encompasses both foreign and American decks. Rod also authored a book titled The Art and Pleasures of Playing Cards.
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