THE BOOK OF FATE or LIVRE DU DESTIN
Book Details + Condition: Chartier-Marteau & Boudin (Paris, France). Very scarce playing / oracle cards by Grimaud, circa 1880s. Includes box with original printed label, and a total, complete deck of 33 cards (32 + 1 blank card). Cards are on a heavy, firm stock. The multifunction cards were intended for both fortune-telling and playing, and printed by prominent French gaming company B.P. Grimaud. Each card is printed with unique hand-colored engravings of figures in period dress, with inset of traditional playing card to top left, and title text in English and French. Very rare original box shows normal wear - it is missing the top closure, but the internal slip case is still present. Scuffing present. The cards are in very good condition, save 4 which appear to have had old water issues, and are somewhat discolored and "softer" than the rest of the deck, which are of a firm card stock.
