Soldiers Playing at Cards, from "Illustrated London News" 1861

"Soldiers Playing at Cards" is a wood engraving by William Luson Thomas, dating back to 1861, and is part of the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The scene captures a moment of leisure, with four soldiers gathered around a table in a dimly lit room, engrossed in a game of cards. The artist masterfully utilizes the stark contrasts of light and shadow to enhance the sense of realism, showcasing the details of the soldiers' uniforms and the rustic setting. The image, originally published in "Illustrated London News," offers a glimpse into the daily lives of soldiers during a time of conflict, highlighting the universality of human experiences even amidst war.