The cards were first advertised c1690 and sold until c1750 and produced and sold by John Lenthall, a map and printseller, who was the predominant seller of playing cards in London during the first half of the eighteenth century.

They include the names of astronomical pioneers (Copernicus, Tycho, Ptolemy) as well as occult figures (Cornelius Agrippa, Hermes Trismegistus, Dr Dee and Dr Faustus). This set has a red Garter tax stamp on the ace of spades.

The Kings [ XIII ] are represented by Nimrod, Herod, Holophernesand Pharof.

The Queens [ XII ] are represented by Clytemnastra, Dido, Prosperina and Semiramis

The Jacks [ XI ] are represented by Cupid, Mahomett, Wat Tyler and Hewfon [ Hewson ] the regicide and possible card maker ?

Each suit was numbered I to XIII. Odd numbered cards had a sign of the zodiac on them; even numbered cards contained a list of thirteen numbered statements. The Kings had a series of questions one could ask. The court cards were given the names of famous people from myth and legend. According to the directions, “When any person is desirous to try their fortune, let them go to one of the four kings and choose what question they please.” This is followed by an elaborate procedure for determining the answer. The explanation ends, “The stars foretell, they love you well.”

Complete deck 52/52 plus two instruction card ‘The Use of the Cards’, closing with ‘Sold by Iohn Lenthall Stationer at the Talbot against St. Dunstans Church Fleetstreet London.’

The cards are in very good condition, there is some card with paper shrinkage, which does not affect the card.

There is minor foxing here and there – all cards are scanned in high resolution so you can judge the condition for yourself.

The Jack of Spades [ XI ] – Wat Tyler, has two wormholes holes and the King of Clubs [ XIII ] Pharoh has 12 wormholes neither card has been affected in the subject of the card by the traces of a long lost friend – all cards have been scanned.