Braulio Fournier

Braulio Fournier González, Burgos (1839-1888)

Braulio Fournier began his lithographic career in 1860, at the age of 21, alongside his brother Heraclio in Burgos. Together, they started producing playing cards under the name “Fournier Hermanos” or “Litografia Burgos”. A significant milestone in their careers was receiving the title of “Lithographers of the Royal Household” from Queen Isabel II. The business flourished, prompting expansion into other cities. In 1868 Heraclio Fournier decided to move to Vitoria (Álava), where he established a separate lithographic workshop which developed into a world leader in playing cards. Thus the original firm in Burgos ended up in the hands of the one remaining brother, Braulio.

Above: Baraja Nº 1 produced by Braulio Fournier, Burgos, c.1868. 40 cards. Cards from the collection of Alec Gibb.

Braulio Fournier's dedication and skill in the field of lithography helped establish the Fournier brand as a respected name in the playing card industry. We can see the superb lithographic skills in the first pack published by Braulio Fournier under his own name. The various colours are applied as though in an oil painting. On Braulio's death in 1888 the business was taken over by Viuda de Braulio Fournier, which in turn was succeeded by Hijos de B. Fournier. Of the five surviving descendants of Braulio's second marriage, Teresa becomes the new company director and the name is changed to Hija de B. Fournier.