The Dice Shooters 1630 - 1680

"The Dice Shooters" is a genre painting by Mathieu (le cadet) Lenain, a prominent Flemish artist, completed sometime between 1630-1680. The painting depicts four men, clad in fashionable attire, engaged in a game of dice around a table. The scene is set in a simple interior, with a glimpse of a landscape through a window. The relaxed, candid posture of the figures and the presence of a dog contribute to the informal, everyday feel of the artwork. This genre of "everyday life" paintings was popular during the 17th century, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people. The painting captures the excitement and tension of the game, while also hinting at the potential for gambling and its consequences.