Paintings
The Cheat with the Ace of Diamonds
Georges de La Tour
c. 1635
Four figures gather around a card table as a young man is fleeced by his companions. The cheat pulls an ace of diamonds from his belt while the maid and a courtesan exchange knowing glances. Lit by a single hidden candle, the figures are rendered in smooth, sculptural forms, and the psychological tension is carried entirely by looks and gestures.
Historical Context
The painting reflects the Baroque taste for moral allegory and the influence of Caravaggio’s followers. It warns against the vices of gambling and deceit, echoing the parable of the Prodigal Son. La Tour, once forgotten, was rediscovered in the twentieth century and this canvas was acquired by the Louvre in 1972.
Provenance
Rediscovered in the early twentieth century in a private collection and acquired by the Louvre in 1972.
Details
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
- Dimensions
- 106 × 146 cm
- Department
- Paintings
- Period / Era
- Baroque & Rococo
- Origin
- France (Lorraine)
- Location in museum
- Sully & Richelieu Wings, Upper Floors — French paintings galleries
About the Artist
Georges de La Tour
Georges de La Tour (1593–1652) worked in Lorraine, where he became famed for nocturnal scenes lit by candlelight. Nearly forgotten after his death, he was rediscovered in 1915, and about forty of his works are known today.