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The card-makers of Turnhout were prolific in their output and inveterate copiers.
Gustaaf Mesmaekers founded his business in 1859 in association with Louis-François Moentack, who left the business in 1862.
Spanish-suited playing cards made in Belgium by Mesmaekers Frères, c.1875.
Made by Mesmaekers & Moentack of Turnhout.
Jeu de Cartes “Bretagne” conveying their cultural identity.
Chinese “Chi Chi Pai” Playing Cards by Mesmaekers Frères for Far East market.
Domino Cards by Mesmaekers Frères, c.1890
Dynastie Royale de Belgique by Mesmaekers, 1934.
“L’Union Fait la Force”, sometimes known as “the Allied pack”, has the four suits dedicated to the victorious nations of the Second World War.
“Le Jeu des Alliés” manufactured by Mesmaekers N.V., Turnhout, 1945.
Souvenir of Jahre Line Ferry M/S Kronprins Harald
The Mesmaekers firm had been established in Turnhout in 1859 by the partnership of Gustaaf Mesmaekers and Louis-François Moentack.
Mesmaekers Spanish Pack for export to Spanish colonies and South American countries, c.1875
Belgian manufacturers were competing against Spanish makers. Features of the traditional Spanish designs, including many well-known brands, were imitated or plagiarised.
Philips 'Arlita' advertising playing cards manufactured by Etabl. Mesmaekers Frères S.A., Turnhout, Belgium, 1925.
Portuguese type pack with ‘dragon’ aces made in Belgium by Mesmaekers Frères, Turnhout, c.1875-1900.
Scaramouche cartes à jouer with designs by Henri Favre, published by Le Triboulet, France.
West Flanders Souvenir pack manufactured in Belgium by Mesmaekers, c.1950.