Playing Cards from France

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Some of the oldest cards still in existence come from France. During the 16th and 17th centuries France was the major supplier of playing cards in Europe.

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1793

Jeu des Quatre Saisons de l’An II

by Matt Probert
Sep 12, 2017

“Jeu des Quatre Saisons de l’An II” facsimile of French Revolution deck originally published by J. B. Debeine (Reims) 1793.

1856

Jeu des Rois de France

by Rod Starling
Feb 11, 2013

This beautifully engraved and pleasing deck designed in 1856 has French Kings and consorts as the Kings and Queens, with noble attendants as the Jacks, all dressed in magnificent period costumes.

1989

Jeu du Bicentenaire de la Révolution Française

by Roddy Somerville
Mar 02, 2024

Pack created by Yannick Pennanguer commemorating the bicentenary of the French Revolution and the centenary of L’Est Républicain.

Jeu du Moulin

by Rex Pitts (1940-2021)
Sep 16, 2020

Jeu du Moulin by Watilliaux, Paris.

1987

Jeu Gothique

by Peter Burnett
Mar 05, 2024

‘Jeu Gothique’ illustrating the Gothic period in France, published by Editions Dusserre.

1800

Jeu Grotesque

by Rex Pitts (1940-2021)
Mar 21, 2018

Jeu Grotesque was first published in France c.1800.

1895

B.P. Grimaud of Paris issued this very ornate costume deck called “Jeu Louis XV No.1502” in c.1895. It has been so popular that it has been re-published on numerous occasions and is still available today in modern re-prints or facsimiles.

1900

Jeu Moyen Age

by Barney Townshend
Apr 19, 2013

Quénioux believed that aesthetic feelings are the highest values: “C’est précisément cet amour de l’artisan pour le travail qu’il accomplit, la satisfaction intime qu’il en éprouve, qui ont donné naissance à tous les arts et qui ont fait dire que l’art est la joie dans le travail”.