Il Faut des Époux Assortis – Antique French Parlour Puzzle Game (c.1880–1900)

A rare 19th-century French card game titled “Il faut des Époux Assortis – Nouveau Casse-tête” (“You must have matched spouses – A new puzzle”). This charming parlour pastime reflects the humor and social satire of the Belle Époque.

🔹 Publisher: J.F.J. Paris (marked on rulesheet)
🔹 Date: Circa 1880–1900
🔹 Game type: Matching / patience puzzle
🔹 Contents: Illustrated box with chromolithograph lid, folded instruction sheet, and a set of pink printed cards featuring caricatured characters (Rigobert, Sophie, Irma, Maxime, Octavie, etc.)
🔹 Card size: 9 × 6 cm
🔹 Objective: Players align the cards to find the correct “married couples” among humorous or satirical figures
🔹 Condition: Box shows expected age wear, cards and leaflet complete as pictured

A beautiful collectible for enthusiasts of antique French games, early card puzzles, or 19th-century ephemera. Rare to find with box, leaflet, and cards together.