Pierre Maréchal - 1567
In this example of the Rouen Pattern, the patrimony of the English Standard can be clearly seen. All the details of the Kings and Courtiers can be seen in full length portraiture showing many of the details that were lost over the centuries. These are the Jacks, Kings and Queens as they originally appeared. Here the King of Diamonds can be seen in profile, his back toward us and his left hand outstretched. Jack Club is holding a long spear with a turned shaft. And the King of Clubs can be seen with his orb. The Queen of Spades, however, is not holding a sceptre as she does so these days in the English Standard.
Further Reading
Regional Patterns of 18th Century France
The English Pattern
Gallery of Early Standard Playing Cards
L I N K S
International Playing Card Society Decline of the English Court Card.
PlainBacks.com: Extensive gallery of early standard playing cards. Famous American and English makers. Plain Backs is a celebration of the English Court Card as a cultural design icon.
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