The Deck
This is another deck which is both beautiful and educational!
From the box:
"This pack of unique Irish playing cards features some of the well known figures in the legends of Ireland. The four suits represent the four provinces of Ireland and the shield of each province is illustrated on the ace of each suit.
The picture cards feature the Kings, Queens and Warriors of the province as in the Celtic legends. The Gaelic terms for these are used on the cards: Ri for King, Bean for the principal woman of the province and Laoch for the chief warrior. The Gaelic Bard takes the place of the original Joker.
This product is designed in Ireland by Rachel Arbuckle."
All I know is that it is a lovely deck, and well worth having.
The Cards on Display
Image: © 1990 Rachel Arbuckle
Ulster province, Deidre of the Sorrows: The fairest woman in all Ireland, she was betrothed to Conchobhar but eloped with Naoise, a hero of the Red Branch. An order from the jealous Conchobar to kill Naoise presented itself to Deirdre in the shape of three ravens. The subsequent death of Naoise and his brothers at Conchobhar's hand resulted in her suicide.
King (Ri) of Clubs
Image: © 1990 Rachel Arbuckle
Munster province, Cu Roi Mac Daire: Was a friend of Cuchulanin and accompanied him on the raid of Inis Fer Falga. Cu Roi, however, fell out with Cuchulainn and made off with the loot and Blathnat, daughter of the king of the island.
Ace of Diamonds
Image: © 1990 Rachel Arbuckle
Leinster province The shield of the province.
Jack (Laoch) of Spades
Image: © 1990 Rachel Arbuckle
Connaght province, Ferdia: Friend and foster brother of Cuchulainn, Ferdia was the only warrior in Ireland who could match the "Hound" in battle. Because of their relationship, the two warriors avoided open conflict with each other. In the Tain Bo Cuailgne, however, Medb goaded Ferdia into fighting Cuchulainn. After four days of combat Ferdia was slain and the grief stricken Cuchulainn erected an oghm stone in his memory.
The Joker (Bard)
Image: © 1990 Rachel Arbuckle
A traveling musician or poet who entertained at the King's court.
The Card Back
Image: © 1990 Rachel Arbuckle
A beautfully complex Celtic pattern.
Purchasing The Deck
I ordered this deck via the Internet, through the Firebird Music Catalog.
Firebird Music primarily sells Irish folk music, but they also sell T-shirts, posters, and this beautiful deck.
Celtic Resources On The Web
- All Things Irish - It looks as though if it's in Ireland and on the Internet, you'll find it here!
- Virtual Celt Page - More links to the Internet's Celtic offerings
- Celtic Thistle Awards - The creator of this web site bestows this award upon Celtic web sites of note. Current and past winners are listed.
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