The Card Sharp on the Boulevard 1806

"The Card Sharp on the Boulevard" is an 1806 painting by Louis Léopold Boilly, a French artist known for his genre scenes and portraits. The painting depicts a bustling street scene in Paris, with a diverse group of people engaged in various activities. A card sharp, likely a con artist, is surrounded by onlookers, some of whom appear to be caught in a game of chance. Boilly’s interest in portraying everyday life and social commentary is evident in this work, which offers a glimpse into the social dynamics of early 19th-century Paris. The detailed depiction of clothing, gestures, and expressions further adds to the painting's realism and historical significance.