Zodiac No. 1182
Constellations captured on cards.
Man’s fascination with the stars is displayed in this charming mini-exhibit in the form of Piatnik’s Zodiac deck published by Bird Playing Cards. There are at least seven sets of zodiacs on these cards, divided by rank.
Luscious reds, greens, and oranges dominate a 15th century French zodiac with designs evocative of The Lady and the Unicorn and The Unicorn tapestries (aces and court cards). Another gorgeous set is 16th century Turkish constellations in the style of Ottoman miniatures as well as a single 14th century Turkish Cancer card (fives through eights).
The Unicorn Tapestries
Zodiac No.1182 playing cards manufactured by Piatnik for Bird Playing Cards (UK), 2003.
Bright woodcut-style beasts frolic on a 19th century French zodiac on the threes and fours. Ships sail and couples stroll through manicured gardens on sumptuous 15th century Italian cards (fives) while vivid hues rule 17th century Venetian images (nines through jacks). The twos and jokers – one of which is a delightfully bashful Leo – are all marked 14th century France, but seem like they come from at least two separate manuscripts. The backs feature Zodiacal Man from a 15th century French manuscript.
By Lev Golinkin
United States • Member since May 26, 2026
I'm a US-based author and journalist. I've been collecting playing cards since I was about 8 years old, when I got mesmerized by the various decks that were used in Soviet Ukraine, where I'm from. I collect mainly European decks such as those by Dondorf, Grimaud, and Piatnik. I love courts above all else, and am drawn toward historical and artistic decks.
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