A Warning Against Playing Dice c. 1500

"A Warning Against Playing Dice" is an early print made by an anonymous artist to warn against the dangers of gambling. In it we see a well-dressed man on horseback, seemingly oblivious to the demons that surround him. The image reflects a society grappling with shifting values, as increasing wealth led to new forms of leisure and, with them, new anxieties about moral corruption. There's a palpable tension between the allure of worldly pleasures, symbolized by the fashionable attire and leisurely setting, and the looming threat of divine retribution. The demons are not just external figures of temptation; they represent the internal struggles with greed and excess that threaten one's soul. Ultimately, the print serves as a stark reminder of the eternal consequences of our choices, urging viewers to reflect on their own actions and to resist the allure of instant gratification.