Het vermakelijk / Harlikein-spel 1827 - 1894

This 1827 print, created by Dutch artist M. Hemeleers-van Houter, depicts Harlequin, a popular character from commedia dell'arte, holding a sack with the number 7 and standing beneath a banner that reads "Het Vermakelijk Harlekin-Spel." The design of the print, with its vibrant colors and bold outlines, is characteristic of 19th-century printmaking, reminiscent of traditional playing cards or game boards. The print, now part of the Rijksmuseum collection, is an intriguing example of the enduring appeal of this iconic comedic figure, and it likely served as a playing card or game board, reflecting the popularity of card games and board games during the 19th century.