United States, from "Court Game of Geography"
1838–55
Medium
Engraving 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(49)
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate engraving, titled *United States* from the “Court Game of Geography,” was created by William and Henry Rock between 1838 and 1855. Measuring just 3 ¾ by 2 ½ inches, the print was designed as a playing card within an educational game that invited players to learn national boundaries, capitals, and geographic features through interactive play. The compact format made maps portable and engaging for both children and adults in an era when formal schooling often lacked visual resources. Produced through engraving and finished with hand-applied watercolor, the card demonstrates the re...
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...