Playing cards, C16th Peter Flötner

This is a replica of a so-called 'satirical' deck of cards by the German artist Peter Flötner c.1540. It has traditional German suit symbols; the Knave and Queen of French-suited decks are represented by the Ober and Unter of each suit. The original deck had no Aces, and was used primarily for the early trick-taking game Karnöffel, the earliest recorded card game. The game was popular among the lower classes, and the naughty and satirical scenes depicted reflect this. The rules for Karnöffel are included, as are to Aces, to make the deck suitable for playing a wider range of games.

The backs are blank, as was common on early cards, and cards are not coated or laminated, making them ideal for reenactment. Card dimensions 89 x 57mm (3 1/2" x 2 1/4").

Save

Save