Misplaced Devotion: Tric-trac Players by Candlelight

Jan van de Velde (II) (mentioned on object), c. 1620 - c. 1630

The Dutch title (Verkeerden IJver) is a pun on the name for a gaming board (verkeerbord). It warns of the dangers of becoming addicted to tric-tac, and the legend translates loosely as: ‘How easily one’s hard-won earnings are lost, to the idle benefit of the landlord and his wife. These people spend day and night in the piss-tavern, while their children and wives do without at home.’

  • Artwork typeprint
  • Object numberRP-P-OB-15.309
  • Dimensionsheight 236 mm x width 269 mm
  • Physical characteristicsets en gravure