Who painted Playing Card?

Playing Card was painted by German 15th Century in 1401.

Where can I see Playing Card?

Playing Card is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Playing Card?

Playing Card is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Playing Card

German 15th Century , 1401

Playing Card is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1401 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Playing Card is a hand-colored woodcut print featuring a simple, blocky figure in browns and blacks. The subject wears a long, lined robe and holds a small, round object, with a stern expression rendered through bold facial lines.

Subject & Meaning

The figure's identity and the object they hold (possibly a hat or ball) are ambiguous, suggesting a symbolic or representational purpose rather than a detailed portrait. The overall design appears more illustrative than realistic.

Technique & Style

Characteristic of 15th-century woodcut techniques, the print exhibits a rough, hand-drawn quality from the carved woodblock. The bold lines and limited color palette (browns and blacks) enhance its primitive, sketch-like appearance.

History & Provenance

Created in the 1400s, this woodcut reflects the common printing techniques of its time. Specific details about its creation, artist, or original context are not provided.

Context

Emerging from a period where woodcuts were a prevalent form of mass-produced imagery, Playing Card likely served a functional or decorative purpose, possibly as part of a larger set or series.

Legacy

As a typical example of 15th-century woodcut printing, Playing Card contributes to the understanding of early printmaking techniques and the aesthetic preferences of its era, though it does not stand out as a pioneering work within the medium.