Game Of Chimeras

This deck features 20 Illustrations in pencil by Yannick Pennanguer - the 12 courts, 4 aces, 2 jokers, the card back and the Notre Dame Cathedral which is background to every pip card. Published by Editions Face&Dos Paris as a souvenir for Notre Dame Cathedral. The cards are 6.3 cm x 8.8 cm The included information card reads (English side): Game of Chimeras Chimeras are mythical and strange creatures originating in the Orient. They were very present in medieval minds and imagination. One can often find these supernatural beings as sculptures in churches and other religious buildings. Contrary to the more popular gargoyls which were simple projecting elements used for draining off rainwater, chimeras had a pure ornemental function. The chimeras that ornate the towers of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, 46 meters (45 yards) over the city\\\'s ground, are straight products of Viollet-le-Duc\\\'s imagination, the architect who undertook the restoration of the church from 1845. Among these weird animals, fantasy birds and legendary monsters, the most famous chimera no doubt is Stryga (Queen of Hearts), the nocturnal and wicked spirit of oriental legends. Since she appeared, her thoughtful attitude has fascinated writers and poets. Still today she seems to look away the metamorphoses of the world below with detachment.