Kouriliens from playing cards "Jeu d'Or" 18th century

This is an anonymous playing card, entitled "Kouriliens" and part of the "Jeu d'Or" deck. Created by an unknown artist, it offers a glimpse into the cultural imagination of its time. The card depicts two figures, a man and a woman, adorned in what was perceived as traditional Kourilian attire. These representations reflect the European fascination with, and often misinformed understanding of, distant cultures. The figures are presented not as individuals, but as types, embodying exoticism and otherness for a European audience. The man carries a bow and arrow, while the woman gestures, possibly indicating the telling of fortunes. This artwork functions as a cultural artifact, revealing the complex interplay between knowledge, power, and representation. It reminds us of the need to critically examine the historical narratives embedded in visual culture, particularly when those narratives involve the portrayal of marginalized communities. It's a poignant reminder of how identities are shaped and reshaped through cultural exchange.