King (Washington from the United States), from "Court Game of Geography"
1838–55
Medium
Engraving, etching and hand coloring (watercolor)
Dimensions
3 3/4 × 2 1/2 in. (9.5 × 6.4 cm)
Classification
Prints|Ornament & Architecture
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of the Estate of James Hazen Hyde, 1959
Accession Number
59.654.16(52)
Tags
Art Historical Context
This charming hand-colored print is the "King of the United States" from the *Court Game of Geography*, a mid-nineteenth-century educational card game published by William and Henry Rock between 1838 and 1855. Measuring just 3¾ by 2½ inches, the card was created through engraving and etching, then delicately tinted with watercolor to bring the figure to life. It forms part of a deck in which court cards personified nations, turning geography lessons into an engaging pastime for families and students. Depicting George Washington as the regal figure, the card reflects America’s growing cultural...
About the Artist
William and Henry Rock · 1821–1884
William and Henry Rock were British brothers and publishers active in London during the mid-19th century, renowned for their innovative educational playing card games that blended art, geography, and entertainment. Operating from 11 Walbrook after 1838, they produced hand-colored engravings that transformed standard card decks into pedagogical tools, with suits representing the four quarters of th...