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Description

Educational Playing Cards for the French Monarchy

This historical card set offers a concise overview of the French monarchy from its origins under Pharamond to the establishment of the Republic.

The cards, intended as an educational tool, feature engraved portraits of French monarchs “based on the finest medals,” skillfully rendered by Pierre François Godard and printed on the presses of P. Didot. Each card showcases a medallion portrait of a king or emperor, accompanied by a brief biography highlighting the significant events of their reign. The elegant design and rigorous historical accuracy reflect the publisher’s aim to provide both moral and patriotic instruction for young learners.

Packaged in its original case, this work builds upon the success of a previous deck covering Roman history.

The publishers emphasize the importance of presenting key points from over 1,400 years of monarchy in a compact, accessible format. While avoiding unnecessary digressions, the creators aim to inspire a nascent appreciation for the values of the Republic by contextualizing the monarchy within a broader moral and educational framework. This set is both a historical artifact and a testament to early 19th-century efforts to integrate education and entertainment. 

Rarity

OCLC locates 2 examples (Morgan Library and Vanderbilt University).

Condition Description
Original slip case, label and 48 playing cards, plus an advertising card.