Attested from the early 18th century. Gnomes are used in Alexander Pope's "The Rape of the Lock". The creatures from this mock-epic are small, celestial creatures which were prudish women in their past-lives, and now spend all of eternity looking out for prudish women (in parallel to the guardian angels in Catholic belief). Other uses of the term gnome remain obscure until the early 19th century, when it is taken up by authors of Romanticist collections of fairy tales and becomes mostly synonymous with the older word goblin. 100% custom designed Bicycle playing card deck. Features Printed by The United States Playing Card Company 100% custom playing cards deck Air-Cushion Finish Custom deck seal Double back gaff card The back card is a tribute to whimsical style. Gnomes are tribal and they are one with nature and it is portrayed perfectly in this design. My friends truly are Kings, Queens and Jacks. Feast your eyes on the Gnome culture! They are Blacksmiths, Archers, Prospectors and Owl Riders. Not everyone can be a Gnome, but it's always fun to pretend. The pips were carefully crafted with the insides of the pips to portray the night and the day. Peaceful and calm is what brings an ease to mind while pondering upon these figures. The Joker is Herb, the local jester. He's a noble man and his message to you is to collect what you love and love what you collect. We hope you love the Gnome Deck!