Checker Players
Smithsonian American Art Museum

Checker Players

Thomas Anshutz, born Newport, KY 1851-died Fort Washington, PA 1912 · ca. 1895

oil on canvas
Smithsonian American Art Museum
CC0 — Public Domain
Smithsonian American Art Museum

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.

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