I first saw this deck in an auction catalogue dated 1997 relating to a sale of Art Deco playing cards from the collection of Dr. Uwe-Volker Segeth, it is also included in his book 'Spielkarten, Jugendstil and Art Deco' printed in 1994. It can also be found in the Fournier Museum catalogue under Denmark P. 269 (10). These cards rarely come to market but in June 2025 4 decks suddenly came up at once. The deck was commissioned by Warburgs of Denmark, designed by Barabara Macdonald an Australian born artist (1892-1969) and printed by De La Rue Playing Card Company between 1925 - 1930. The reference to De La Rue is written on the box and appears to be contemporary to the cards. Other collectors attribute the Universal Playing Card company as makers of these cards. Both Segarth and Fournier claim the printer to be Goodall but I believe this to be incorrect. The spade ace is plain without makers name. The deck comprises 52 cards plus one very ornate Joker. Blue backs with geometric design. Red variant also known.
Barbara Macdonald (1892–1969) was a British painter and illustrator known for her contributions to early 20th-century book illustration and fine art. She was born in England and, after World War I, moved to Australia with her Australian husband.
Key Facts
• Birth/Death: 1892–1969.
• Profession: Painter and illustrator.
• Notable Works: She was the sole illustrator for two books:
• A New Book of Old Rhymes (1920)
• Princess Herminie and the Tapestry Prince (1922).
• Artistic Recognition: Two of her watercolors were exhibited at the Royal Academy in London.
• Career in Australia: After relocating to Australia, she continued her artistic career, illustrating books and writing/illustrating a serial called The Epistles of Pamela, published in Ure Smith’s Home magazine from 1920–1921.
• Artistic Style: Her work is associated with the Art Nouveau movement.
Legacy
Original works by Barbara Macdonald are considered rare and collectible today, reflecting her unique contribution to early 20th-century illustration and her transnational career between Britain and Australia