Ganjifa Indian Playing Cards

Ganjifa Playing Card Set & Box

Rajasthan, India

20th century

height of box: 8.8cm, length of box: 17.8cm, diameter of playing cards: 4.9cm

This set of ganjifa playing cards comprises 96 cards – and so is a full set of ‘Mughal’ playing cards.

Each card is of circular form and is painted on lacquered paper-board. The cards are stored in light wood box that has been painted on all sides with a Indian courtly scenes, reflecting the scenes painted on the ‘court’ cards inside.

The lid of the box slides open along a groove.

The ‘court’ cards show images of the mir (king) and wazir (minister) and others in various situations such as enthroned and holding court, and astride horses.

As such each card represents a unique and tiny Indian miniature painting.

Then there are the ‘numeral’ cards. These are indicated by a corresponding number of suit marks (chinha).

Ganjifa originated in Persia but it really flourished in India where the game developed in various forms. Meanwhile, in Persia, the game largely died out. Initially in India, the game was played by the Mughals of northern India, but it soon spread to most parts of the country.

Each card in this set is in perfect condition. The box also is in very good condition.

References

Chopra, S., Ganjifa: The Playing Cards of India in Bharat Kala Bhavan, Banaras Hindu University, 1999.

von Lyeden, R., Ganjifa: The Playing Cards of India, Victoria & Albert Museum, 1982.

Topsfield, A., (ed.), The Art of Play: Board and Card Games of India, Marg Publications, 2006.

Provenance:

private collection, England.

Inventory no.: 2347

SOLD