“Abd-el-Kader” by Fossorier, Amar et Cie for Algeria
Spanish National pattern produced by Fossorier, Amar et Cie (Paris) for Algeria, around 1902.
A version of the old Spanish National pattern was produced by Fossorier, Amar & Cie of Paris for export to Algeria. These were known as “Abd-el-Kader” and usually distinguished by a preponderance of green and a repeating pattern on the backs. The publisher’s name can be seen on each of the four aces while the name of the engraver E. Hellé is on the 10 of coins at the bottom left corner. The jacks and cavaliers are standing on small areas of scenery, but the kings are not. The cavalier of cups has the legend “Ahíva”. The tax stamp can be seen on the two of swords.
Above: Spanish National pattern playing cards (“Abd-el-Kader”) produced by Fossorier, Amar & Cie of Paris for Algeria, 1902-10. 40 cards, colour lithography. Source gallica.bnf.fr / Bibliothèque nationale de France • Jeu de cartes au portrait espagnol, dit "Abd-el-Kader", destiné à l'Afrique du Nord►
By Simon Wintle
Spain • Member since February 01, 1996 • Contact
I am the founder of The World of Playing Cards (est. 1996), a website dedicated to the history, artistry and cultural significance of playing cards and tarot. Over the years I have researched various areas of the subject, acquired and traded collections and contributed as a committee member of the IPCS and graphics editor of The Playing-Card journal. Having lived in Chile, England, Wales, and now Spain, these experiences have shaped my work and passion for playing cards. Amongst my achievements is producing a limited-edition replica of a 17th-century English pack using woodblocks and stencils—a labour of love. Today, the World of Playing Cards is a global collaborative project, with my son Adam serving as the technical driving force behind its development. His innovative efforts have helped shape the site into the thriving hub it is today. You are warmly invited to become a contributor and share your enthusiasm.
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