“Flirt”, or the “language of flowers” is a Persian game of the 19th century, and was introduced to Europe through the writings of two individuals, one of whom was Lady Mary, the wife of the British ambassador in Istanbul. In 1717, she detailed Flirt in her letters as “the secret language of love.” These writings were published posthumously in 1763 and became widely popular, especially among the aristocratic circles of Victorian England and France.
In 1830, a book was published in Russia detailing approximately 400 flower languages.
In Georgia, during the 20th century, the board game “Flirt” was a beloved pastime in literary salons. It comprises 36 cards, each featuring the name of a garden plant along with a corresponding phrase.
The game involves six or more participants. Cards are arranged in a complete lineup, each card containing over ten phrases. Players select cards from the deck themselves. When a player intends to initiate a conversation with someone, they present a card featuring their desired phrase and mention the flower name associated with the phrase. The recipient responds likewise or chooses not to respond. In case of no response, the player can then select another recipient to attempt flirting. A player who distributes all their cards and receives no response is out of the game.
The Tbilisi Museums Union – Nikoloz Baratashvili Memorial House Museum has reintroduced this game, now available for purchase at their location on 17 Chakhrukhadze Street.
