Billards 1803 - 1815

This anonymous hand-colored etching, titled “Billards,” is a satirical commentary on the popular 19th-century game. Created between 1803 and 1815, the artwork depicts a group of men playing billiards in a casual setting. The scene is full of comedic details, including the awkward postures of the players, the dogs running around, and the onlookers’ reactions. The artist’s use of exaggeration and caricature highlights the absurdity of the game, suggesting that billiards was more about social interaction and entertainment than skill. This print was acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.