Cult of Tarot Forum

Just what you didn't know you were waiting for ....

A set of playing cards in the Mamluk style, believed to be the forerunner of all European playing cards (and also tarot cards). The suits are very closely related to the tarot suits (and Italian playing card suits). The court cards are unusual in that they are not illustrated, but identified with texts on blue labels. Everything is highly decorated with elaborate floral patterns.

These cards are my interpretation of a Mamluk design with the original Mamluk suits. I have drawn the linework in pen and ink using compasses and a ruler, coloured in watercolour. On Kickstarter now:

Gosh these are absolutely stunning. Beautiful work!

archimedes wrote: ↑15 Jul 2021, 04:12 Gosh these are absolutely stunning. Beautiful work!

Thanks very much!

shimmering wrote: ↑15 Jul 2021, 13:15

archimedes wrote: ↑15 Jul 2021, 04:12 Gosh these are absolutely stunning. Beautiful work!

Thanks very much!

I've added this to the list of Current crowdfunding campaigns on the homepage.

I love Ian's decks. They have a real charm.

Thanks a lot Joan Marie ... big mistake by me not to have submitted to the newsletter that arrived this afternoon. I just assumed it was going out at the start of the month and that I'd missed it. Oh well, never mind.

I've just had my Mamluk style playing cards printed ... they're called Cards from the Pattern Garden. Available to order now from my website (https://northerndisplayers.co.uk/cpg.html) or also from me on etsy if you prefer that ...


The cards are printed at playing-card size. The suits are the Mamluk suits, obviously closely related to the traditional suits of tarot and Italian playing cards (swords, polo sticks, coins, and myriads). The biggest difference between these and typical European cards is the appearance of the court cards: the Mamluk cards don't have any representation of human figures, so the court cards are indicated by blue labels with calligraphic inscriptions, three court crads per suit: a king and two deputies. The artwork was drawn by hand and coloured with watercolour. More pics on the link above, or you can look on youtube to see more ...

Discover the captivating origins of European playing cards with our exquisite Mamluk-style set! Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, our cards pay homage to the rich history and intricate designs of the ancient Mamluk tradition. Immerse yourself in the beauty of elaborate floral patterns and the mystique of historic court cards, each identified with elegant blue labels. Join us on Kickstarter to embark on a journey through time and culture, as we bring to life this extraordinary blend of artistry and heritage. Your next game night awaits an unparalleled experience, don't miss out on what you never knew you were waiting for.