A Break: Playing Cards by Julian Scott. Three Union soldiers are seated on the grass playing cards behind a stone wall, watched by a standing officer beneath a draped American flag.

A Break: Playing Cards

Julian Scott

1881 · Oil Paint, Canvas

This 1881 painting by Julian Scott captures a quiet, humanizing moment of camaraderie among Union soldiers during the American Civil War.

$243

For the selected configuration

From $129

6 frame sizes

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Where it works

A substantial, grounding work with warm wood and umber notes — holds a formal wall with confidence.

Often works in
Living Room · Study · Library
Placement
Reads best as a confident vertical anchor
Walls
Best where a lighter wall gives it room to show
Color notes
Rich brown, Charcoal black, Soft gray

About the piece

Julian Scott's 'A Break: Playing Cards' offers a poignant glimpse into the everyday life of American Civil War soldiers. Seated in the shadow of a stone wall with an American flag draped above them, the figures find a moment of respite from the conflict. Known for his accurate depictions of military life, Scott uses a rich, earthy palette to ground the scene in historical reality while highlighting the personal connections between the men.

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