ACKERMAN BARLETT 1818 Transformation Playing Cards. A historical metamorphosis that captivates the senses
Over the last few years we have witnessed an interesting series of reproductions of old decks, the result of the collaboration between Will Roya (PlayingCardsDecks.com) and Azured-Ox. Now, they offer us a new release that will not disappoint anyone: ACKERMAN BARLETT 1818.
In 1833, Caleb Barlett published in New York what is considered the first transformation deck printed in the United States. This deck was a reproduction of the cards that Rudolph Ackermann published in 1818 in “Repository of Arst”, a prestigious British magazine in which art, architecture or fashion were combined in charming lithographs and high-quality engravings.
The meticulous research carried out by Azured-Ox has allowed it to recreate one of the most beautiful transformation decks from the early 19th century that sees the light today thanks to modern printing techniques. Each of the cards has been delicately restored from the few original sources with a beautiful recreation of the motifs and colors and with a huge symbolic representation.
The characters that appear on the aces or on the court cards represent not only different social classes but also exude their own personality in scenes full of life.
The costumbrist character of the time is drawn on the numbered cards, with scenes full of everyday life illustrated in black and white on which the pips stand out and are integrated at the same time.
The simple and geometric back is inspired by the original and printed with metallic inks.
Although the original deck had no jokers, three jester cards have been included that fit perfectly with a 19th century edition.
The tuck case has been reimagined with elegant decorations and a custom stamp with the dates of the original deck and the reproduction (1818 and 2023).
In addition to the standard edition, a limited edition of blue gilded decks will also be printed.
The decks will be printed at the USPCC with its known quality.
The campaign has just launched and there are still some gaps in the most interesting contribution levels. If you want to get this historical reproduction, visit the project website and raise your pledge.
Good luck!
