Genevan Dauphiné pattern
Unusual example of a double-ended Genevan Dauphiné pattern pack from c1910.
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.
By Roddy Somerville
Member since May 31, 2022
Roddy started collecting stamps on his 8th birthday. In 1977 he joined the newly formed playing-card department at Stanley Gibbons in London before setting up his own business in Edinburgh four years later. His collecting interests include playing cards, postcards, stamps (especially playing cards on stamps) and sugar wrappers. He is a Past President of the Scottish Philatelic Society, a former Chairman of the IPCS, a Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards and Curator of the WCMPC’s collection of playing cards. He lives near Toulouse in France.
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