Artwork
House of Cards
House of Cards is a print by the Baroque artist Pierre Filloeuil. It is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
House of Cards is a print by French artist Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin, depicting a boy intently building a structure with playing cards.
Subject & Meaning
The scene shows a boy absorbed in a quiet, studious activity, highlighting the seriousness and concentration of childhood. A accompanying rhyme draws a parallel between the fragility of the card house and the impermanence of adult aspirations.
Technique & Style
The print features a subdued color palette, with sunlight casting a warm glow on the scene, emphasizing the stillness and quiet contemplation of the moment.
Context
This work is one of several by Chardin that portray children engaged in thoughtful play or study, reflecting his interest in capturing the intensity and gravity of childhood experiences.
Artist & collection
Le Chateau de carte (The House of Cards)
Etude du dessin (The Drawing Lesson)
La coupe enchantee
A Money Scrivener
Dame cachetant une lettre (Woman Sealing a Letter)
La coupe enchantee
Politician
Graveurs en taille douce au burin et à l'eau forte (Copper Plate Engravers and Etchers)
L'amant de lui-mesme
Copy of "Système de Magnée - Veritable Position de la Main et de la Plume" from François Magnée's
"Le Parfait calligraphe, ou Méthode pour apprendre soi-même a écrire en peu de leçons"
Penelope
L'Optique (The Optical Viewer)