Jeu des Blasons

During the Middle Ages, clever tutors figured out that playing cards made good learning aids: they’re essentially flash cards that passively drill facts into players’ heads. One field that lends itself to such a rote approach is heraldry. Indeed, this deck’s explanatory card says it was created in the tradition of earlier heraldic decks. (Check out the heraldry tag for more.)

If you love coats-of-arms and/or bright colors, these cards are for you. Each suit is divided into two categories – cards two through seven and eight through king – dedicated to an aspect of heraldry. Spades portray crests and ordinaries (basic shapes that go on the shields); hearts bear heraldic crowns and the arms of military orders; clubs carry the arms of French cities and provinces; and diamonds have arms of various occupations and shield divisions. Aces and jokers show heraldic colors and patterns.