Playing cards have a radical transformation since their first beginnings several centuries ago. Cards deck like we know today making a journey that took hundreds of years and involved traveling through many countries. In fact, the most significant elements of today’s deck were produced by different cultures and countries.
First References on the East
Many researchers agree that playing cards may have been invented during the Tang dynasty in China around the 9th century AD. First written reference describes Princess Tongchang playing the “leaf game” with the family of her husband. With woodblock technology, they enjoyed the game and made wagers on who would win. The “leaf game” involved nine cards where players could stake metal currency to win.
By the 11th century, playing cards were spreading throughout the Asian continent and later came into Egypt. The oldest surviving cards in the world are dated to the 12th and 13th centuries, which was known as the early Mamluk period. These are four fragments found in the Keir Collection and one in the Benaki Museum.
A near-complete pack of Mamluk playing cards dating to the 15th century. It was set composed of three different packs, probably to replace missing cards. These cards had an abstract design not depicting persons.
Mass Production of Cards
The printing press developed by Johannes Gutenberg in 1440 helped push the popularity of playing cards with mass-produced decks. However, gambling was seen as an amoral activity. But, it didn’t affect its popularity. In this period the cards deck changed its design and number of cards. The French deck was the first to include an Ace, King, and Queen, a Jack or Knight. European playing cards made their way back to the East through trade by ships.
In the United States Joker first appeared into the deck. It was devised for the game known as Euchre. The name of the cars is believed to derive from juker, a variant name for euchre.
The first known instance of mass-produced packs was known as the Infirerra form Spain in 1693. The design of these eventually became standard by the 1700s. A print created by Samuel Hart in 1864, known as the Saladee’s Patent, became the most common card design.
Today the standard is the 52-card deck with Hearts, Diamonds, Clubs, and Spades. It is using for table games, from Poker and Blackjack to Baccarat or Three-Card Rummy.
Online Casinos and Playing Cards
The emergence of online casinos changed the way of playing cards. It’s become much easier and provides a player the opportunity to play favorite table games with cards from the place he chooses. We suggest trying the table games at Casino Brango. Our game selection features everything from Poker, Baccarat, Blackjack to Tri Card Poker.
However, if you above all like to spin reels, check out the latest RTG release and enjoy holiday vibes!
