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
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National Trust

5 Articles

Woodpecker Press is believed to have started up in 1987 as a spin-off from the closure of Astra Games.

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Woodpecker Press Ltd

Woodpecker Press is believed to have started up in 1987 as a spin-off from the closure of Astra Games.

Woodpecker Press Ltd

Period Pieces

National Trust Period Pieces Antiques Game produced in 1976 by Dinosaur Publications.

Period Pieces

Country Craftsmen

“Country Craftsmen” Happy Families with illustrations by Mandy Hall, published for the National Trust by Dinosaur Publications Ltd, 1978.

Country Craftsmen

Eglantine Table

The Eglantine Table, Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire, elaborately inlaid with marquetry depicting musical instruments, playing-cards, games and heraldic references.

Eglantine Table

Woodpecker Press Ltd

Woodpecker Press is believed to have started up in 1987 as a spin-off from the closure of Astra Games.

Woodpecker Press Ltd

National Trust Properties

National Trust Properties Pack, c.1997.

National Trust Properties