Cartes Catalanes by Fossorier, Amar et Cie

In France there is a unique card pattern called the ‘French Catalan’ pattern, which is predominantly found in a small area in the south-west of the country, the Catalan region of Roussillon. These designs have their roots in the traditional Spanish National pattern which was also manufactured in France in the Perpignan area but has since become stylised. Interestingly, the jack of coins holds a French hunting horn in his left hand, adding a touch of local flavor. All the jacks and cavaliers are standing on a small area of scenery. The kings are depicted with beards and long robes that cover their legs and feet entirely, with no scenery. One distinctive feature is the cat on the four of coins, and of course, the preserved line-breaks (known as 'pintas') in the borders of the cards.

The arms of the city of Paris and the name of the publisher appear on the ace of coins and the publisher’s name is also printed on each of the 12 court cards.

Above: ‘Cartes Catalanes’ published by Fossorier, Amar et Cie (Paris), c.1900. 48 cards, colour lithography. Blue tax stamp dated 1890 on the two of Swords. Source gallica.bnf.fr / Bibliothèque nationale de France • Jeu de cartes au portrait espagnol dites "catalanes"►

Ducale, a subsidiary of France Cartes under Cartamundi, is the last known producer of this particular card pattern.