This is the first known round deck of cards in Europe. Made in the later part of the 15 century by Master PW. Master PW was an engraver at the time and produced other non-playing card engravings of note. These cards are believe to have been produced in Cologne as noted on the title card: "Salve Felix Colonia".

Title Card

This round deck consists of 72 playing cards, Ace through ten, a under servant, a servant, the Queen and King, produced on thin paper, thus these were probably not used to play any card games as they are too flimsy. There are five suits in this deck, plus a title card and a extra card for a total of 72 cards. The name of the engraver is not known, however he is known simply as Master PW.

Included here are the Ace and Queen of each suit. The inscription on the banner of each Ace is translated from the original Latin to English. These translations come from "A Pack of Cards by Master PW", copyright c. 1974 by Edition Leipzig.

Ace of Roses

Queen of Roses

Ace and Queen of Roses - banner: "Pepvlit Vires Casvs Animo Qvi Tvlit Aeqvo" meaning; He defeats the power of chance who endures with equanimity.

Ace of Aquilegias

Queen of Aquilegias

Ace and Queen of Aquilegias (Pinks) - banner: "Par Ille Svperiscvi Pariter Dies Et Fortvna Fvit", meaning; He is equal to the celestials who equally received time and fortune.

Ace of Carnations

Queen of Carnations

Ace and Queen of Carnations - banner: "Fortvna Opes Avferre Non Animvm Potest", meaning; Fortune can take away wealth but not fortitude.

Ace of Hares

Queen of Hares

Ace and Queen of Hares - banner: "Felix Media Qvisqvis Tvrbae Parte Qvietvs", meaning; He is happy who is quite in the middle of turmoil.

Ace of Parrots

Queen of Parrots

Ace and Queen of Parrots - banner: "Qvicqvid Facimvs Venit Ex Alto", meaning; Whatever we do, it comes from aloft.

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