Have you ever wondered where a deck of playing cards from or the meaning behind them? A deck of cards is more than just a way to play fun games. A deck of cards has meaning behind it and is actually quite interesting to learn about. From the basic construction of the cards to the deep meaning of the symbols, a deck of playing cards is an interesting thing.
Playing cards are generally just a heavy sheet of printed paper. They are a small size, made to fit in the palm of the hand. Many are coated so that they can withstand constant and frequent use without showing wear and tear easily. A deck of cards consists of 52 cards, all with specific symbols printed upon them. The fronts of the cards have specific markings that determine the name and use of a card. The back of the card can be decorated in many different ways.
Cards have always seemed to be around in one form or another. They have always served as a way to pass the time and to have fun. Card games have served for years in modern society as a way for people to get together and enjoy an evening. Throughout history playing cards have changed from simple to the more creative styles we have today.
A typical deck of playing cards is made up of suit cards and court cards. The four suits are hearts, diamonds, spades and clubs. The court cards originated from Europe and stand for the royal court. The court cards include the king, queen, knight and jack.
There are many ways the court cards can be interrupted. The traditional interpretation matches up each royal card of the deck with a specific historical figure. For example, the King of Diamonds represents Julius Caesar and the Queen of Diamonds represents Rachel from the Bible.
Playing card designs have often been used to get out messages. During the French revolution playing cards had symbols for freedom and brotherhood. Even today playing cards are often made using themes. You can get playing cards in many different designs and not just on the backs of cards. Many card manufacturers make themed cards with interesting new designs and plays on the classic suits and court cards.
The modern deck of cards used in America today feature the classic suits of hearts, diamonds, spades and clubs. They have the four court cards of the king, queen, knight and jack. The colors of a standard deck are usually black and red with some yellow highlight color on the court cards. The four suits each have numbered cards from 2 to 10, an ace and then one of each court card.
The meaning of a deck is not always clear. Most people do not put much meaning in the cards. Depending on the country or culture the meaning of the deck could differ greatly. Deciding on the meaning of a deck of playing cards is really something personal. You can decide for yourself what meaning you want to place on the cards.