Playing cards have been with us since the 14th century, when they first entered popular culture. Over the centuries packs of cards, in all shapes and sizes, have been used for games, gambling, education, conjuring, advertising, fortune telling, political messages or the portrayal of national or ethnic identity. All over the world, whatever language is spoken, their significance is universal. Their popularity is also due to the imaginative artwork and graphic design which is sometimes overlooked, and the “then & now” of how things have changed.

Hungarian Seasons playing cards by G. Berger, Buenos Aires

Hungarian 'Seasons' playing cards made by G. Berger, Alsina 373, Buenos Aires c.1940

Argentina Hungary Berger Hungarian Seasons Pattern

G. Berger, manufacturer of playing cards, Buenos Aires, Argentina c.1935-50

Hungarian 'Seasons' playing cards made by G. Berger, Alsina 373, Buenos Aires c.1940

Little is known about this manufacturer. The cards shown on this page date from the 1940s or early 50s.

The brand name "La Estrella" with a six-pointed star logo was subsequently used by Igor Domicelj and Vigor S.R.L., suggesting some sort of business succession. In particular, the six-pointed star motif was used on the ace of coins in Spanish-suited decks, or on the ace of spades in Anglo-American ones. The ear of wheat motif was also found on the box of Igor Domicelj-Vigor's version of “Naipes Tipo Húngaro”. See the Box►

Hungarian 'Seasons' playing cards made by G. Berger, Alsina 373, Buenos Aires c.1940

Hungarian 'Seasons' playing cards made by G. Berger, Alsina 373, Buenos Aires c.1940

See also: Hungarian ‘Seasons‘ pattern by Piatnik, c.1991.

By Simon Wintle

Member since February 01, 1996

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Curator and editor of the World of Playing Cards since 1996.

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Hungarian Seasons playing cards by G. Berger, Buenos Aires

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Hungarian 'Seasons' playing cards made by G. Berger, Alsina 373, Buenos Aires c.1940

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