ERTE LA TRAVIATA Playing Cards by Dunhill of London (Vintage)

This is a very rare opportunity to purchase a beautiful card game

by Alfred Dunhill of London

“La Traviata” by Erté, c.1985
This outstanding and elaborate deck designed by Erté, the Russian-born Art Deco designer, was commissioned by Dunhill of London based on the theme of “La Traviata”. The court cards with French indices are reversible. That is to say that when turned end for end, a different picture is seen. Sometimes the difference is very obvious, other times it is more subtle.

Erté’s real name was Romain De Tirtoff and he lived from 1892 to 1990. A major turning point in his career came in 1965, when he met Eric and Salome Estorick, the founders of Seven Arts Ltd of New York and London. Seven Arts produced this pack, and remained the exclusive agent for Erte’s work until his death.

“LA TRAVIATA” playing cards designed by Erté, c.1985.

The actual maker of the cards is not disclosed.

The title card gives a copyright notice by Seven Arts, London.

There is a pamphlet that opens up to 14 pages describing not only every card in the deck but also that the suits cover various Acts and Scenes from the opera. The pamphlet also explains that “When the 54 cards (four suits and two Jokers) are arranged numerically and by suit, highlights from the opera unfold chronologically”.

Double set in elaborate luxury box with gold decorations, gold-edged, leaflet.

The instruction leaflet is included as shown in pictures.

The instruction leaflet describes the game as such:

Alfred Dunhill of London is proud to present a unique set of playing cards by the internationally acclaimed artist ERTE, based on one of the most romantic operas of all time – GIUESSEPE VERDI’S ” LA TRAVIATA”
Fusing his lifelong interest with opera with his passion for intricate and colourful design.ERTE has meticuously illustrated each playing card with an event from “LA TRAVIATA”. When the 54 cards ( four suits & two jokers) are arranged numerically & by suit ,highlights from the opera unfold chronologically.
Each of the scenes on the playing cards capture the mood & pace of VERDI’s opera-the clandestine trysts,extravagant parties & Violetta & Alfredo ‘s heart rending farewell. ERTE’s brilliant use of colour coupled with his exacting attention to detail,brings the opera to life in a most unusual way.
The cards are contained in a leather bound box with gold tooling the box is in good condition but has some small idents on the top that are to difficult to photograph .These are mentioned for accuracy and do not detract from its beauty.
The cards are not sealed.