Genevan Dauphiné pattern

Dauphiné pattern cards were adapted for use in the French-speaking part of Switzerland from about 1800 (and possibly even before that). The Gassmann family of cardmakers from Geneva made the pattern popular. It survived into the 20th century. This example, though anonymous, was probably made by J. Müller & Cie of Schaffhausen. It borrows directly from earlier packs by Gassmann. Note the bird in the right hand of the King of Diamonds and the cut-off cartouche on the Jack of Spades where the maker’s name would have been.

Above: Genevan Dauphiné pattern, probably made by J. Müller & Cie, Schaffhausen, Switzerland, c1910. 36 cards. Size: 55 x 86 mm.

REFERENCE: “Schweizer Spielkarten” catalogue. Zürich; 1978. p.113, cat. no. 74.