Grimaud N°1503 Louis XV – Dolphin Blue revives one of the most celebrated French playing card designs of the late 19th century through a remarkable collaboration between Grimaud and the Bibliothèque nationale de France. More than a modern decorative deck, this is an archival reissue rooted in the history of French card-making and the artistic world of the 1890s.
The Louis XV Legacy
Originally created in the 1890s under Georges Marteau, the Louis XV deck was designed for refined Parisian salons and drew on the visual richness of the court of Louis XV. Preserved in the collections of the Bibliothèque nationale de France, the design stands as one of the great expressions of French luxury playing cards from the period.
Art Nouveau Design
The artwork is tied to Jules Habert-Dys, the painter, engraver, and illustrator associated with the Art Nouveau movement. Flowing lines, ornamental plant forms, and graceful decorative detail give the deck a distinctive look that sets it apart from standard playing cards. In this Dolphin Blue edition, the signature blue tones reinforce one of the best-known visual identities associated with Grimaud’s historic Louis XV line.
Construction & Features
- 53-card Whist format – the traditional format of the original reissue
- Archival collaboration with the BnF – based on a historic deck preserved in the Bibliothèque nationale de France
- 350g black core paper – substantial premium stock
- Custom varnish – designed for smooth handling and durability
- Gold-gilded edges – both decorative and protective
- Embossed Paris-made packaging – with an Art Nouveau-style sleeve and gold-tone detailing
- Made in France – produced with traditional artisanal methods
These details are part of what makes the Louis XV deck so compelling: it is not just historically inspired, but carefully recreated as a premium French deck with strong visual and tactile presence.
Why Collectors and Players Love It
The Louis XV reissues appeal to collectors because of their archival pedigree, but they also remain genuine playing cards with a rich, substantial feel. For customers who appreciate heritage design, decorative detail, and the romance of classic French card-making, Dolphin Blue offers a distinctive experience that goes far beyond an ordinary deck.
Where It Fits
This deck is part of our Royal, Imperial & Heritage Playing Cards collection. For more recommendations, see Best Royal Playing Cards and European Playing Cards Guide.
You may also like Louis XV (Coral Red), France Royale, and Bicycle Byzantine.