The World of Playing Cards Logo

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.

The World of Playing Cards Logo The World of Playing Cards
Browsing designer:

William H. Barribal

5 Articles

Barribal patience

Waddington’s Patience Cards from the Barribal Series, c.1929.

Barribal patience

Waddington’s Encore Series

Waddington’s Encore Series 1933.

Waddington’s Encore Series

Barribal Series

William H. Barribal (1873 - 1956) was a London artist who created the Waddingtons 'Barribal' playing cards series, which are avidly collected today.

Barribal Series

Waddington’s Sporting Birds Series 1933

Waddington’s Sporting Birds Series 1933.

Waddington’s Sporting Birds Series 1933

Waddington’s Wildlife and Classic Series, 1933

Waddington’s Wildlife and Classic Series, 1933.

Waddington’s Wildlife and Classic Series, 1933