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.
Originally one of several designs which emerged during the nineteenth century, the Florentine pattern has several distinctive features.
The Sicilian pack has a similar composition to the Neapolitan pack, and is small and squat in appearance.
