Checker Players

Thomas Anshutz, Checker Players, ca. 1895, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Orrin Wickersham June, 1967.136.4
Copied Thomas Anshutz, Checker Players, ca. 1895, oil on canvas, 16 1⁄8 x 20 1⁄8 in. (40.8 x 51.0 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Orrin Wickersham June, 1967.136.4
Free to use

Artwork Details

Title
Checker Players
Artist
Date
ca. 1895
Location
Dimensions
16 1⁄8 x 20 1⁄8 in. (40.8 x 51.0 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Orrin Wickersham June
Mediums
Mediums Description
oil on canvas
Classifications
Subjects
  • Recreation — sport and play — checkers
  • Children
Object Number
1967.136.4
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/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.