Human beings have always been interested in the activity of gambling. Our argument can be corroborated by a multitude of cave paintings, murals and remnants of artistic pieces.

Gambling has always piqued the interests of human beings. This is probably because we crave for risks and want that feeling to overwhelm us. We are a creature of contradictions, and this has been the case since the dawn of time.

Speaking of which, the article that we have today attempts to provide an insight into some paintings that explore the motif of gambling.

As we mentioned a few moments ago, the relationship between humans and gambling is not new. It has always been there in various forms and shapes. We shall try to excavate a pathway to those art pieces and examine how gambling has influenced our lives.



The Cardsharps by Caravaggio:

The very first painting that we need to mention in this little list is the very famous The Cardsharps created by Caravaggio. The painting provides a peek into how the gambling culture of those days was.

It also went on to become the turning point in Caravaggio’s career. This is considered as Caravaggio’s first independent painting after he left the workshop of Cavaliere Giuseppe Cesari d’Arpino.

At the Roulette Table by Edvard Munch:

The second painting that we need to concentrate upon in this article is made by Edvard Munch. It goes by the name At the Roulette Table and is inspired by his frequent visits to the casino in Monte Carlo.

Edvard Munch created this masterpiece from his memories, and by observing human behavior at the casino. He also experimented with different styles and shades of colors while he made the painting, and bettered his style.

Card Players by Paul Cézanne:

This is a much-celebrated post-impressionist painting created by Paul Cézanne and is still considered one of the best paintings on gambling. It depicts the daily activities of peasants at a bar, specifically that of playing cards.

Another interesting fact about this painting is that it is not a singular piece of masterpiece. In fact, Card Players is a series of paintings, each unique in quality and appeal.

Dogs Playing Poker by Cassius Marcellus Coolidge:

The name of the painting itself is certain to raise a few eyebrows. With a name as curious as such, it is normal to feel intrigued by what the piece offers.

Dogs Playing Poker is a painting created by Cassius Marcellus Coolidge, where we can see a few dogs concentrating on poker. It is one of the most famous and talked about paintings and comes in eight versions. There is nothing logical about this art, and that is what makes it so intriguing.

Slot Machine Queen by Shelly Wilkerson:

The least celebrated of all is Shelly Wilkerson’s painting Slot Machine Queen. It is sometimes bracketed in the same category as Dogs Playing Poker and is not regarded as ‘high art’.

The name of the painting clearly suggests what one can expect from it. It depicts an old woman playing slots and seeming rather happy about it.

But like we said, most connoisseurs of art do not appreciate this piece or even consider this as art. However, while talking about paintings that explore gambling, it becomes imperative to mention Slot Machine Queen.



Gambling as a Motif:

Gambling has always been explored with utmost gusto in art and popular culture. From paintings to movies, the theme of gambling has been exploited to the very best. In fact, several popular video games are also themed upon the premise of gambling.

Casinos have also sought refuge in art in more than one way. Even the best Canadian casino site is known to be high on art and draws people in flocks.

Therefore, as we can see from the discussion, gambling and art have a deep-seated relationship. They are mutually dependent on each other and shall continue to explore their relationship in the years to come.

Wrapping Up:

The aforementioned paintings are some of the best-known works that are based upon the theme of gambling. The list is not entirely comprehensive. But it is a great place to start for anyone looking for the relationship between gambling and art.

Feel free to dig around a bit more and keep adding to the list for a holistic learning experience. Gambling has always been an integral part of entertainment and shall continue to be so further down