This set, an original of which is in the prints room of the National Library, was published in 1816. Its history is described on an imprint of the mold: composed by Gustave Housbigant following a bet with friends that he would make them play with cards other than those used and that everyone found hideous…

Unaware that the cards were then a monopoly of the State, denounced for fraud, Houbigant was summoned to the house of M. de Barente, director of indirect taxes. Monseigneur Le Duc de Berry was about to be married, and on the occasion of this marriage, Houbigant was asked to execute twelve dozen games which appeared for the first time on the gaming tables of the Court.

Republished today by France Cartes, the game Dames de France, strong of its history, will be in the place of honor on your bridge table.