B. Dondorf: A Legacy in Luxury Playing Cards

DONDORF FRANKFRURT

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B. Dondorf, also known as Dondorf, was a prestigious playing card manufacturer founded in Frankfurt, Germany in 1833. For a century, they produced exquisite playing cards that captivated enthusiasts and collectors alike¹.

Origins and Early Years

Bernard J. Dondorf, born in Frankfurt in 1809, hailed from a Jewish immigrant family. Before establishing his own business, he worked for the printers C. Naumann. Initially, Dondorf’s company sold equipment for the printing industry, stationery, and visiting cards, utilizing lithographic printing techniques. Around 1840, as chromolithography gained popularity, Dondorf diversified into the playing card business¹.

Expansion and Success

In 1871, Dondorf opened a new factory and retired in July 1872, passing the reins to his sons, Carl and Paul, along with his son-in-law, Jacob Fries. The company thrived, printing banknotes for Italy and Japan. Leading up to World War I, they were the primary playing card manufacturer for Denmark, Norway, and Sweden¹.

Challenges and Decline

Unfortunately, the war brought irrecoverable losses, and hyperinflation in Germany further devastated the business. In 1929, the firm was sold to Flemming and Wiskott, who continued selling cards under the Dondorf name. By 1933, VASS acquired the company but ceased production of Dondorf’s lines due to the rise of Nazism and the oppression of Jews. The Dondorf family scattered abroad¹.

Despite its eventual decline, B. Dondorf remains a cherished name among collectors, a testament to their legacy in luxury playing cards².