Page of Swords 1751

This hand-painted playing card, "Page of Swords," is a prime example of 18th-century French playing card design by Claude Burdel. The "Valet Despée," as it's titled in French, depicts a young man in richly detailed clothing, holding a sword and a staff. This card, part of a larger deck, embodies the traditional style and symbolism associated with the "Page of Swords" in tarot and playing card traditions, representing a messenger or a beginning in a suit related to intellect and action. The intricate details and vibrant colors of this card reflect the skillful hand of Claude Burdel, a master of playing card art.