Pair of Whist Markers
primary
Unknown
Date19th century
MediumTextile fibers with stamped gold leaf and metal
Dimensions4.6 x 4.6 cm (1 13/16 x 1 13/16 in.)
ClassificationsArchival Material
Credit LineIsabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston
Accession numberU11n29.1-2
eMuseum ID729712
Previous Number171
EmbARK ObjectID11547
TMS Source ID741
Last Updated1/9/25
Status
Not on viewWeb Commentary
With a simpler and less elegant design than their British counterparts, these two whist markers were likely made in America for a version of the popular 19th century game played to 7 points.
During Isabella’s lifetime, the strictly defined gender roles that existed elsewhere in society were largely absent from card playing culture. American women of Isabella’s standing would have been encouraged to play and hone their skills.
BibliographyNotesDeandra Duarte, “The Hand Isabella Dealt: A Selection of Playing Cards in the Collection,” Inside the Collection (blog), Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, 7 January 2025, www.gardnermuseum.org/blog/isabella-playing-cards-collection
MarksNotesGilded (around perimeter of counter faces): 0 / 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9
ProvenanceNotesEntered Isabella Stewart Gardner's collection at an unknown date.