Mathematical Instruments
Mathematical Instruments playing cards forming an instrument maker's trade catalogue, Thomas Tuttell, c.1700.
Mathematical Instruments, Thomas Tuttell, c.1700
An elaborately engraved pack of cards forming an instrument maker's catalogue. Each card has a title within a cartouche, with a miniature playing card in the top right corner. Illustrations of the use of the various instruments used in surveying, navigation, fortification & gunnery, mining, engineering, astronomy, etc., are shown with a description below. The Four of Diamonds features an almanac for the year 1701.
Above: Mathematical Instruments playing cards by Thomas Tuttell, Mathematical Instrument Maker to the King's most excellent Majesty, c.1700. The Nine of Clubs has a tax stamp. Plain backs.
See also: The Beggar's Opera • South Sea Bubble • Knavery of the Rump • Arms of English Peers • Robert Morden • Cries of London • Transformation Cards, 1811 • Marlborough's Victories • Fortune-Telling, c.1690 • Geistliche Karten
By Simon Wintle
Member since February 01, 1996
View ArticlesCurator and editor of the World of Playing Cards since 1996.
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