Hand-painted Italian Al Cigno Cards, circa 1840s

Item — Box: 4, item: 4

Scope and Contents

Unsealed. No case.

Dimensions: 1.94" x 3.57"

Quantity: 40

Original inventory number: 50

Dates

Creation: circa 1840s

Conditions Governing Access

Advanced notice required for access.

Biographical / Historical

These cards are a typical set of playing cards using an Italian-suited deck consistig of coins, swords, cups, and clubs (like a baton). There is a duty stamp on the ace of coins with the text "ASSO DI DENARI" and "R.C.A." and the value is "BAJ. 5" (5 Baiocchi) which is a subdivision of the Roman scudo, the currency of the Papal States until 1866. This specific stamp was used in the Papal States from aroundd 1840 to 1850.

Full Extent

From the Collection: 2 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

From the Collection: English

Additional Description

Physical Description

No case or wrapping. Cards are long and a thinker board paper. They are handpainted. The ace of coins bears a duty stamp and the four of cups is inscribed "CARTE FINE."