Playing Cards from China

53 Articles 8 Contributors

The Chinese took their cards with them wherever they travelled and traded in the East, and we find Chinese cards in use not only in the mainland but also in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan, Singapore, North Borneo and Vietnam.

About China

Displaying 53 articles •

Sort by: Publication Date • Alphabetical • Year of Production

Pulp Pin-Up

by Rex Pitts (1940-2021)
Feb 28, 2021

Classic 1940s Pulp Pin-Up covers on playing cards from China, c.2010.

2010

QAIPES – cartas españolas

by Roddy Somerville
Jul 08, 2024

Spanish-suited cards made in China inscribed “QAIPES” and “BAIPES”!

Regional Cards: China and Hong Kong

by Andy Pollett
Sep 19, 2006

Explore the history, patterns and designs of traditional Chinese playing cards, featuring unique regional variations.

Tam Cúc 三菊

by Anthony Lee
Jan 12, 2017

Tam Cúc playing cards from Vietnam (Việt Nam), based on Chinese chess, 2016

2016

Terracotta Army

by Matt Probert
Dec 16, 2015

Each card has a different photo of elements of the terracotta army whose purpose was to protect the emperor Qin Shi Huang in his afterlife.

Terracotta Warriors of Emperor Qin

by Matt Probert
Dec 13, 2015

“Terracotta Warriors of Emperor Qin” collectible playing cards, made in China, c.2010.

The Summer Palace

by Matt Probert
Apr 07, 2017

The Summer Palace, Beijing, China, c.1998.

1998

Three Kingdoms

by Simon Wintle
Apr 26, 2012

One of an extensive range of Chinese historical, art and culture playing cards, Three Kingdoms playing cards describes the historical story of the Three Kingdoms period, the political and military struggles between the contending rulers.

TikTok Tarot

by Adam Wintle
Jan 04, 2023

TikTok Tarot is a unique tarot deck that puts a modern spin on the Rider-Waite format; with TikTok-inspired artwork that appeals to younger audiences.