Ober (playing card)

[1] Van der Linde argues that the King, Ober and Unter in a pack of German cards represented the military ranks of general, officer (Oberofficier) and sergeant (Unterofficier), while the pip cards represented the common soldier.

"under", formerly Untermann or "vassal", "subject", "subordinate"), by the figure's suit sign located in the upper range of the card.

In the Württemberg pattern the Ober appears on horseback, as they were inspired by Cego packs whose face cards included a Knight or Cavalier as well as the Jack, Queen and King.

For packs he regards as common, beneath the seated King were two marshals (cavalry commanders), with one holding his suit sign up while the other held his hanging down.

This corresponds with modern Obers and Unters with the exception that they are no longer mounted on horseback.