Who painted Playing Cards?

Playing Cards was painted by Italian 15th Century in 1470.

Where can I see Playing Cards?

Playing Cards is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Playing Cards?

Playing Cards is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Playing Cards

Italian 15th Century , 1470

Playing Cards is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Italian 15th Century. It dates from 1470 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The work is a woodcut print depicting six playing cards arranged in two rows of three. Each card bears a distinct motif: the upper row includes two cards marked by crossed wands and one crowned card, while the lower row presents three cards adorned with elaborate circular designs. The image rests on a light‑colored, aged paper background.

Subject & Meaning

The composition focuses on the iconography of playing cards, a popular recreational object in the period. The crossed wands and crown likely reference specific suits or ranks, while the circular patterns suggest ornamental or symbolic embellishments typical of card design.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, the print demonstrates the medium’s capacity for fine line work and repeated motifs. The carved blocks produce crisp outlines and a balance between simplicity of form and intricate detailing, especially evident in the circular patterns of the lower cards.

History & Provenance

The piece is presented as a print, indicating it was intended for multiple copies. No specific date or collector information is provided, but its material, aged paper and woodcut technique, places it within the broader tradition of early modern European printmaking.

Context

Playing cards were a common subject for artists during the Renaissance, reflecting both leisure activities and the spread of printed imagery. The work aligns with that era’s interest in everyday objects rendered with technical precision.