Russian Four Seasons

Originally titled “Seasons” or “Times of the Year” and first published by The Colour Printing Plant in St Petersburg in 1971, these cards were designed by artist U. P. Ivanov. Each suit is allegorical of one of the four seasons of Winter, Spring, Summer & Autumn.

The graphic design is clear, decorative and geometrical, with straightforward symmetry and colour coordination in each suit. The attributes of the court figures add a touch of the theatrical and enhance the symbolism of the seasons, giving a sense of drama and overall integration to the design. The Joker's masks provide the means of transformation from one persona to another.

Above: “Seasons” playing cards first published by The Colour Printing Plant in St Petersburg in 1971, designed by U. P. Ivanov. 52 cards + 2 Jokers.

Note from Roddy Somerville

A second version of this pack was issued in 1992 (or possibly earlier). There are several differences. Overall, the colours are stronger. The later printing has larger indices. Whereas in the first printing the pip cards were plain, these are now decorated, each with a small scene or vignette in pale grey, with pale blue (black suits) or pale yellow (red suits) shading in two corners. The Joker now has similar pale yellow shading but the black border line has been removed. There is a new back design, featuring a stylised owl in the centre. The 1992 printing which I have has a matt finish, while the 1993 printing has a glossy finish - R.S.

Above: “Seasons” playing cards, second version, with stronger colours, larger indices and small vignettes on the numeral cards, c.1992. The Joker now has pale yellow shading and the black border line has been removed.