Black Gilded Mortalis Machina Playing Cards

Black Gilded Mortalis Machina Playing Cards bring together gothic symbolism, steampunk aesthetics, and intricate paper engineering in a striking collector’s deck. Designed by The Paper Gear Company, this edition expands on the Mortalis Machina concept with dramatic black gilded edges and a fully foiled mechanical tuck box that transforms the simple act of opening a deck into an interactive experience.

At the heart of the design is the theme of humanity’s eternal clash and coexistence with machines. The artwork blends Victorian-era elegance with steampunk imagination, weaving together Baroque curves, gothic ornamentation, and dark fantasy imagery across every card. The result is a deck that feels both ancient and mechanical, as if forged in a world where gears and souls are equally powerful forces.

The courts and jokers are richly illustrated with hand-drawn characters rooted in mythology and symbolism. The Jacks represent ominous “Death Messengers,” including figures such as a hellbound rider, a mysterious black cat, the Horse of the Apocalypse, and a raven. 

The Queens embody powerful goddesses and mythological figures such as Santa Muerte, Koli, Mengpo, and a figure inspired by Valkyrie or Hel. The Kings take on the role of grim reapers and rulers of the underworld, represented by legendary figures like the Reaper, Anubis, Hades, and Yama.

The Jokers provide a contrasting yet meaningful touch. One holds a heart symbolizing love, while the other clutches treasure representing wealth. Together they reflect the duality of human desire... reminding us that the very things we pursue for happiness can also carry the seeds of sorrow.

The most distinctive element of the deck is its mechanical tuck box. The foiled metallic gear design is not merely decorative; it is a functional piece of paper engineering where gears shift and move as the box opens. Despite its intricate mechanism, the tuck remains the same compact size as a standard deck box, demonstrating impressive craftsmanship and precision while remaining lightweight and durable.

Pledge starts at $34 on Kickstarter.