Checker Players

Media - 1967.136.4 - SAAM-1967.136.4_1 - 3042
Copied Thomas Anshutz, Checker Players, ca. 1895, oil on canvas, 16 1820 18 in. (40.851.0 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Orrin Wickersham June, 1967.136.4
Free to use

Artwork Details

Title
Checker Players
Date
ca. 1895
Dimensions
16 1820 18 in. (40.851.0 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Orrin Wickersham June
Mediums
Mediums Description
oil on canvas
Classifications
Keywords
  • Children
  • Recreation — sport and play — checkers
Object Number
1967.136.4

Artwork Description

Two boys sit engrossed in a game of checkers, each focusing intently on his next move. The dark, featureless interior draws our attention to the players' rigid poses. The lack of movement, somber tones, and carefully balanced composition create a serious image around a familiar game, something that is usually viewed as carefree and fun.