This is one of a series of so called "Costume Cards" produced in France in the mid-nineteenth century. It features named historical figures and being engraved and hand colored, they were produced in limited quantities and therefore quite rare. I have no doubt that the decks were expensive and that their value was appreciated at the time of their creation. Most specimens found are gold edged and usually in excellent condition, an indication that they were carefully preserved. If any interest is shown for this type of deck, I will post scan of others.
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