Playing cards--The Beggar's Opera

52 cards, each 95 x 62mm., engraved with the hearts and diamonds coloured in red, plain versos, 13 mounted in a frame, the rest in a folder attached to the back of the frame, a few cards cut close, a few light stains

Ortiz-Patiño 13; All Cards on the Table 264

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

John Gay's opera was first performed in 1728; the set of playing cards containing music and lyrics from the opera most probably appeared soon after, produced by the map and printmaker John Bowles, and its great popularity resulted in regular reprintings throughout the eighteenth century. A version is known with the imprint of Carington Bowles on the ace of spades, dated to c. 1765, but there is no imprint on this set. This set has a red tax stamp on the ten of spades.