Playing Card Collection (#4)
"From Medieval Times to Modern Art: The Fascinating World of Playing Cards" Step into the enchanting world of playing cards
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"From Medieval Times to Modern Art: The Fascinating World of Playing Cards" Step into the enchanting world of playing cards, where centuries-old designs and captivating stories come to life. Dating back to the 18th century, these playing cards bear the blazoning of the ensignes armorial of Scotland, England, France, and Ireland - a testament to their historical significance. Travel back even further in time to 1588 when the Spanish Armada faced defeat at the hands of Sir Francis Drake. A deck of English playing cards depicted this monumental event, with the three of diamonds capturing a momentous victory. Art lovers will appreciate Paul Cezanne's masterpiece "The Card Players. " Painted around 1892 on canvas, it beautifully captures an intimate scene that transcends time. Intrigue and illusion take center stage as we witness Isaac Fawkes performing his bag trick. This English conjurer wowed audiences with his ability to produce eggs and birds - a true marvel captured in contemporary copper engravings. Georges de La Tour's painting "The Cheat" from around 1625 transports us into a tavern interior filled with tension and deceit. It serves as a reminder that not all card games are played fairly. During WWII, even amidst war-torn Italy, Tuskegee Airmen found solace in playing cards at Ramitelli Airfield's officers club. Photographed by Toni Frissell in March 1945, this image showcases camaraderie among these brave individuals like Walter Mo Downs and William Price III. Lewis Carroll's whimsical tale "Alice in Wonderland" features an iconic illustration called "The Shower of Cards, " where Alice finds herself surrounded by cascading playing cards - a surreal sight indeed. Portraits painted on canvas capture moments frozen in time; such is seen in "The family of infant Don Luis Bourbon" from 1783-1784 or within the lively tavern interior depicted on a panel.