German cards

Among the early cardmakers of Europe, surely the Germans were the most imaginative in revising and multiplying suit signs and courts. German cards also tended to be decorated with lively scenes and caricatures. The German national pattern finally settled on four suits (Leaves, Hearts, Acorns and Hawk Bells) from which the Queen was banished.

German deck, Nüremberg, 1813

<- Introduction into Europe

Tarocco ->