"Playing Cards:
History of the Pack and Explanations
of Its Many Secrets" by W. Gurney Benham - originally published in 1931...
...a seminal, extensively illustrated, and
highly regarded historical study of European playing cards, focusing on their
origins, evolution, and symbolism - widely considered a key reference work for
collectors, historians of gaming, and enthusiasts of card lore.
Benham provides detailed insights into the origins and
evolution of the traditional English four-suit pack, including the
"Cardboard Court" (court cards).
It includes significant research into Tarot cards and their
early history.
The book explores the history of card-making in Britain and
Europe, including the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards
(established 1628).
Very well illustrated with many in colour .
The text covers various "secrets" such as the
symbolism in court cards, the evolution of the Ace of Spades, and the use of
cards in divination.
This edition published by Spring Books in 1958 is a very good facsimile edition of the original including the cloth cover illustration - see photo
Author: Benham,
W. Gurney (William Gurney) Sir (1859-1944)
Full title: Playing
cards : history of the pack and explanations of its many secrets / [by] W.
Gurney Benham
Publisher: London
: Spring Books, 1958
Edition: Edition
Unstated
Binding: Hardcover
ISBN: No ISBN
Good cloth copy in a rather tatty edge damaged grubby dust wrapper BUT the book itself is in very good condition and is well-preserved overall with bright colours to the illustrations