Bertschinger y Codina - Cartes Françaises

Single-ended French ‘Paris’ pattern pack (Cartes Françaises) made by Bertschinger y Codina, Barcelona, c.1850. The court cards have the normal fleurs-de-lis decorations and historical names, while the manufacturer’s name and address in Barcelona appears on the wrapper

Above: standard French ‘Paris’ pattern made by Bertschinger y Codina, Plaza del Correo Viejo nº 12, Barcelona, c.1850. Square corners, stencil-coloured, 32 cards in wrapper. Bibliothèque nationale de France • Jeu de cartes au portrait français édité pour l'Espagne►

Change of address of Bertschinger y Codina playing card factory, 1845

Above: Diario de Barcelona 8 March 1845.

France had a significant cultural influence on Spain during the 19th century, and adopting French designs helped Spanish manufacturers appeal to consumers who admired French culture and aesthetics. Thus, by producing these cards, Bertschinger y Codina could tap into a broader international market and meet the preferences of a diverse audience. They may even have been used in gambling establishments.