A charming herbal-themed quartet card game from the early post-war period, published around 1950 by the Altenburg Playing Card Factory (Thuringia, Germany). The delicate illustrations were created by artist Liesel Lauterborn, known for her detailed and characterful designs in mid-20th century children's games.
This set belongs to the first generation of post-war quartets from Altenburg and beautifully reflects the nostalgic visual language of that era.
Title: Herbal Quartet
Manufacturer: Altenburg Playing Card Factory, Thuringia (Skatstadt Altenburg)
Date: circa 1950 (first edition No. 9145)
Illustrator: Liesel Lauterborn
Theme: medicinal and garden herbs (e.g. sage, mullein, nettle, among others)
Complete set with 36 cards, including a separate instruction card
Card size: approx. 100 × 65 mm
Back design: green-white with floral herb illustration and butterfly motif
Language: German
Packaging:
Original cardboard box featuring a front illustration of a girl in traditional dirndl holding a basket of herbs
Marked: “Heilkräuter-Quartett – Altenburg Playing Card Factory, Thuringia (Skatstadt)”
The box shows authentic patina of a more than 70-year-old original – lightly bumped, partially creased, with small edge tears. Minor stains and signs of use underline the genuine vintage character and give the piece its distinctive collector’s appeal. Despite age-related wear, the box remains stable and complete.
Condition:
Cards complete and clean, with minimal signs of age-related use
Colors remain vibrant, print is sharp
Overall a very appealing and authentic collector’s condition with character
The card game has been carefully inspected and properly stored. It is offered in the condition described above.
Shipping is carried out securely packaged with DHL and tracking.
If you have any questions or would like additional photos, feel free to get in touch at any time.
This is an original one-of-a-kind item.
