Hallmark

Not much is known about this delightful Hallmark deck. The cards have a folk art fairy tale aesthetic, with the courts – presented in strict profile – resembling chess pieces. Indeed, the four courts look so similar to each other that at first glance, I thought the deck used the same repeating figures for each suit. However, there are charming little differences to be discovered in the clothes designs and accessories carried by the royalty.

Two jokers, one of which has an octopus/Hindu deity/Vitruvian Man feel accompany the courts. These cards come in a double deck with an intriguing difference between the backs. One set has a blue Italianate statue set against a pattern of gold wreaths and leaves on a rich green background; the other has only the pattern without the statue. Unfortunately, the designer’s name is unknown.