The Origins and Evolution of Card Names: A Dive into Trzes' Mamluk Deck
Introduction
In the fascinating history of playing cards, one deck stands out as a crucial link between the Islamic world and Europe: the Trzes' Mamluk deck. This modern reconstruction, based on a nearly complete medieval deck found in the Topkapi Museum, offers a glimpse into the ancient origins and evolution of card design and naming conventions.
Origins of European Playing Cards
The Discovery and Significance of the Topkapi Deck
In 1931, the discovery of a nearly complete deck of medieval playing cards at the Topkapi Museum of Istanbul provided irrefutable proof of the Islamic origins of European playing cards. This elegant deck, gold-embellished and hand-painted, served as the basis for the modern reconstruction by Trzes' Art. The deck's ornate design and gold accents are reminiscent of Italian aristocratic playing cards from the mid-15th century, highlighting the cultural exchange and artistic influence that transformed these simple cards into high-status objects.
Structure and Design of the Trzes' Mamluk Deck
Deck Composition and Design Principles
The Trzes' Mamluk deck is a meticulously crafted reconstruction based on the original, with 43 original cards and five replacement cards. The creator aimed to improve upon past reconstructions by utilizing modern technology like vector graphic software and ensuring geometric balance in the design. The deck includes 48 cards in total, divided into four suits: Coins, Scimitars, Polo Sticks, and Myriads. Each suit contains number cards from Ace to 10 and three or four court cards, a structure that mirrors Italian playing card suits.
The Court Card Controversy
The Mamluk Deck's Court Cards
The court cards in the Trzes' Mamluk deck present a significant controversy. Unlike the original deck, which had suit symbols instead of human figures, the Trzes' Mamluk court cards include a seated King, a mounted Knight, and a standing Page. This design choice reflects the elements of historical accuracy and artistic interpretation. As Michael Dummett argued, the original deck likely had three court cards per suit, with the fourth rank being a Third Deputy. However, as cards were lost, replacement cards from other decks with blue panels were inserted, leading to confusion.
Historical Context and Evolution
The Spread of Playing Cards in Europe
Playing cards spread from the Islamic world to Europe through Arab traders and sailors, reaching the Mamluk Sultanate in Egypt by the 1300s. By the 14th century, card playing had become a popular pastime across Europe, illustrated by the deck discovered in Barcelona. This early European deck shows modifications to the Mamluk design, with suits of Coins and Myriads remaining similar, but Scimitars becoming straight swords, and Polo Sticks morphing into batons.
Cultural Influences and Design Variations
Card Design and Symbolism
The patterns and decorations on the cards reflect the cultural and artistic influences of both the Mamluk and European worlds. The Trzes' Mamluk deck's use of geometric shapes, ornate patterns, and vibrant colors highlights the influence of Islamic art on card design. Cardmakers in Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany, and Spain each developed their own unique symbols for the suits, with the French suit system, Hearts, Clubs, Diamonds, and Spades, becoming the standard worldwide.
Conclusion
The Trzes' Mamluk deck serves as a testament to the rich history and evolution of playing cards, blending ancient design principles with modern artistic techniques. By understanding the origins and evolution of card names and design, we can better appreciate the cultural significance of these simple yet enduring objects.