This very attractive engraved pack, albeit of a relatively simple design but with a great deal of intricate detail in the clothing and accoutrements, was made in Germany by an unknown maker c.1820-30 (possibly Bacher of Ulm). It is a fine example of the early cardmaker’s art and is hand-coloured using stencils with about 5 or 6 different colours. The double-ended courts are divided by a horizontal line and a double line serves as a border around each card. The ladies’ attire illustrates fashion from that period but they do not hold flowers or fans as is often the case. The aces are plain.
Above: from the collection of Klaus-Jürgen Schultz.
By Simon Wintle
Member since February 01, 1996
View ArticlesCurator and editor of the World of Playing Cards since 1996.
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