Two decks of French playing cards by B.P. Grimaud, c.1890s
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
c.1890s
This collection features two distinct decks of French playing cards manufactured by the renowned firm B.P. Grimaud in Paris during the 1890s. The set is presented in a hinged, compartmented leatherette storage box measuring approximately 10x14x2.5 cm.
The first deck features a Napoleon-era theme, characterized by plain blue backs and cards finished with gilt corners; the Ace of Clubs is notable for its detailed wreath design. This deck is complete, consisting of 52 cards. The second deck features a plaid-patterned back design and comprises 51 cards, notably missing the Ace of Spades. B.P. Grimaud was established in 1848 and earned a reputation as the premier French manufacturer of playing cards during the nineteenth century, recognized for superior printing quality and innovative deck designs.
These vintage playing cards offer a historical glimpse into the aesthetic traditions of French card manufacture at the turn of the century.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Container
- leatherette hinged box with 2 compartments
- Dimensions
- 10 x 14 x 2.5 cm
Technical characteristics
- Deck 1 count
- 52
- Deck 2 count
- 51
Design
- Deck 1 style
- Napoleon-era themed, blue backs, gilt corners, wreath design Ace of Clubs
- Deck 2 style
- plaid backs
Identification
- Source note
- Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.
- Maker named in listing
- B.P. Grimaud
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.