Modern Scientific Analysis of 19th Century Playing Cards in the Winterthur Museum

Abstract

This article applies modern scientific analysis to early nineteenth-century American playing cards from the Winterthur Museum, uncovering new insights into their materials and manufacturing techniques. Through advanced methods such as transmitted light microscopy and FT-IR spectroscopy, the study reveals details about paper types, fiber sourcing, adhesives, pigments, and sizing. The findings illuminate prevailing trends in American card production, such as the transition from laid to wove paper and the use of rag fiber, starch, and kaolin clay. The research not only provides a deeper understanding of period craftsmanship but also highlights analytical methods for distinguishing originals from later reproductions or fakes.