Description: No one really knows where they came from, but playing cards were most likely invented in the Far East and came to Europe at roughly the same time as paper money and gunpowder. By the early 14th century they were in widespread use in France. Since that time, cards have played a major role in magic and divination, especially tarot cards; have served as the basis for beautiful design; have commemorated great victories; have helped to sell many things; and, of course, have served as the basis for a variety of games. The present volume, based on research and collections from around the world, also makes extensive use of the magnificent collection of the United States Playing Card Company in Cincinnati. In addition to a full, rich text focusing on playing cards in China, Japan, India, Europe, Russia, and America, the book contains an annotated bibliography of more than 900 items on playing cards and games, and probably the largest range of illustration ever assembled in one place on cards: 1462 photographs, of which 16 are in color.

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