King Of Clubs Collection

PLAYING CARDS, c1750. Playing cards bearing the blazoning of the ensignes armorial of the kingdoms of Scotland, England, France, and Ireland. Engravings, 18th century

An engraving depicting the King of Clubs model of the penny-farthing, 19th century
5311626 An engraving depicting the King of Clubs model of the penny-farthing, 19th century; (add.info.: Date: 1890); Universal History Archive/UIG

King of Clubs model of the Penny Farthing
5616744 King of Clubs model of the Penny Farthing'; (add.info.: Illustration showing the King of Clubs model of the Penny Farthing Bicycle 1890. 01/01/1890); Universal History Archive/UIG

King of Clubs from a deck of Goodall & Son Ltd. playing cards, c1940. [Goodall & Son Ltd. London, c1940]

The Queen never left off quarrelling with the other players... 1907
The Queen never left off quarrelling with the other players, and shouting Off with his head! or, Off with her head! from Alices Adventures in Wonderland, by Lewis Carroll, pub

Six early forms of bicycles and tricycles, 19th century. The cycles shown are the Otto Dicycle, the Rover Safety, Singers Special Safety, the King of Clubs

Notes at the Annual Assault of Arms of the London Athletic Club (engraving)
1053258 Notes at the Annual Assault of Arms of the London Athletic Club (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

Label for King of Clubs linen (colour litho)
982316 Label for King of Clubs linen (colour litho) by French School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Label for King of Clubs linen, with an image depicting the King of Clubs)

Eddie Fewtrell has written a book called King of Clubs, along with Shirley Thompson from Solihull, about his nightclub empire in Birmingham from the 1950s

And beat the Knave full sore, 1880. Creator: Randolph Caldecott
And beat the Knave full sore, 1880. The Queen of Hearts dances with the King of Clubs as the tart-stealing knave is given a beating in the background

King of clubs, 1915. Artist: Rozanova, Olga Vladimirovna (1886-1918)
King of clubs, 1915. Found in the collection of the Local Heritage Museum, Slobodskoy

PLAYING CARDS, 1543. Playing cards made by Jehan Henault at Antwerp, 1543

SPANISH ARMADA, 1588. The English Fleet whereof the Lord Charles Howard was Lord Admirall and Sir Francis Drake vice Admirall

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"The King of Clubs: A Royal Symbol through Time and Art" Step into the world of playing cards, where the King of Clubs reigns supreme. Dating back to the 16th century, these small pieces of art have captivated hearts and minds for centuries. In the c1750 deck, we find a regal representation of Scotland, England, France, and Ireland. The blazoning ensignes armorial proudly display each kingdom's heritage on these exquisite engravings, and is a testament to their historical significance. Fast forward to c1940 when Goodall & Son Ltd. Introduced their own version of the King of Clubs. This deck showcases meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that has become synonymous with this iconic card. But it's not just about playing cards; it's about stories unfolding around them. In 1907, "The Queen never left off quarrelling with other players, " reminding us that even royalty can engage in playful disputes during a game. Meanwhile, at the Annual Assault of Arms held by London Athletic Club (engraving), notes are taken as competitors battle for victory. The King of Clubs stands tall amidst fierce competition—a symbol both respected and feared. Beyond playing cards themselves lies an array of cultural references associated with this royal figure. From labels adorning luxurious linen products to Randolph Caldecott's whimsical illustration titled "And beat the Knave full sore" in 1880—the King commands attention wherever he appears. Artists like Olga Vladimirovna Rozanova immortalize him in vibrant colors in her piece from 1915—an homage to his enduring presence throughout history. Even outside the realm of cards, Eddie Fewtrell pays tribute with his book aptly named "King of Clubs. " Alongside Shirley Thompson's collaboration, they delve into realms beyond gaming tables—exploring tales fit for kingship.