Baraja Española, No. 32, 50 Cards, Blue Back

"Fournier are the standard for Spanish playing cards, and they offer several different styles, but I rather like this No. 32 deck. The art is distinctly different from their more common No. 1 deck, and (in my opinion) somewhat better. (Straight Swords instead of curved, for example, and the Coins have a flower pattern instead of the profile face on the No. 1 decks.)

Setting the Art aside...

These cards have a very smooth, glossy finish. Like most Americans, I am much more accustomed to the lightly textured "Air Cushion Finish" offered on cards from a certain major manufacturer -- which is nowhere near as smooth, shiny, or slippery. So if that's what you're accustomed to as well, then these Fournier cards may look and feel a bit strange at first.

However, they seem to be sturdy enough, and I look forward to playing with them -- as soon as I find someone willing to learn a Spanish game or two with me. :)"