If you’re a fan of art or poker, you’ve probably heard of the iconic painting, “Dogs Playing Poker.” The painting is a series of oil paintings that depict anthropomorphic dogs gathered around a table playing poker. The original painting was created by American artist Cassius Marcellus Coolidge in 1903, and it has since become one of the most recognizable and parodied works of art in American culture.
But where is the original “Dogs Playing Poker” painting now Let’s find out.
The History of “Dogs Playing Poker”
Cassius Marcellus Coolidge was an American artist who was famous for his humorous paintings depicting dogs engaged in various human activities. In 1903, Coolidge created his most famous work, “A Friend in Need,” which depicts seven dogs gathered around a table playing poker. This painting started a series of similar paintings that became known as the “Dogs Playing Poker” series.
The series consists of 16 oil paintings that were commissioned by Brown & Bigelow, an advertising company. The paintings were originally used as advertisements for cigars but soon became popular among the general public.
Despite their popularity, the “Dogs Playing Poker” paintings were not well-regarded by art critics at the time. They were seen as kitschy and lacking in artistic merit. However, over time, they have come to be appreciated for their humor and as examples of early 20th-century American culture.
Where Is the Original Painting
The original “Dogs Playing Poker” painting, “A Friend in Need,” is currently on display at the New-York Historical Society Museum & Library in New York City. The museum acquired the painting in 2015 after it was sold at auction for $658,000.
Before it was acquired by the museum, the painting had a long and interesting history. It was originally purchased by the advertising company Brown & Bigelow, which used it as an advertisement for cigars. After World War II, the painting was sold to a private collector and disappeared from public view for many years.
In the 1980s, the painting resurfaced and became part of a traveling exhibition that toured museums across the United States. It was during this time that the painting gained widespread popularity and became a cultural icon.
After its tour ended, “A Friend in Need” was sold at auction in 2005 for $590,400. The buyer was unknown until 2015 when it was revealed that it had been purchased by the New-York Historical Society Museum & Library.
The Legacy of “Dogs Playing Poker”
The “Dogs Playing Poker” paintings have become more than just a series of kitschy advertisements. They have become cultural icons that are recognized around the world. The paintings have been parodied in movies, television shows, and even video games.
Despite their initial lack of critical acclaim, “Dogs Playing Poker” has become an important part of American art history. They represent a unique moment in time when popular culture and advertising intersected with fine art.
In Conclusion
The original “Dogs Playing Poker” painting may have been created over a century ago, but its legacy lives on today. The painting is currently on display at the New-York Historical Society Museum & Library in New York City for all to see and appreciate.
