The artwork titled “Poker Game” was created by Cassius Marcellus Coolidge in 1903. Painted in oil, it belongs to the Kitsch art movement and is part of the “Dogs Playing Poker (1903)” series. This animal painting is currently housed in a private collection.
In the artwork, four dogs are depicted engaging in a poker game, seated around a table cluttered with poker chips, playing cards, glasses of whiskey, and cigars. The scene is illuminated by the glow of a hanging lamp, casting a focused light on the dogs, emphasizing their anthropomorphic portrayal. Each dog displays unique expressions and accessories, such as glasses or a pipe, adding to the whimsical and humorous tone of the piece. The background details, including framed artwork and a dimly lit ambiance, contribute to the intimate, almost clandestine atmosphere of a serious poker game, despite being played by dogs.