The celebrated Caravaggio painting “The Cardsharps” is one of the most detailed, realistic artworks of the 16th century. Two boys are playing cards, with one of them, being signaled by a third boy, is cheating hiding a card behind his back. The use of teenage boys in a scene of deception works as a visual representation of innocence lost.
Our version has three figures, the youngest of which appears to be the only one smiling while surrounded by deception. A victory sign symbolizes the two older men’s confidence, as they essentially lead the young boy down a path of corruption.
