LEYDEN, Lucas van
(b. 1494, Leiden, d. 1533, Leiden)

The Game of Chess

c. 1508
Oil on oak, 27 x 35 cm
Staatliche Museen, Berlin

Chess was a popular medieval allegory for power struggles on most levels, including the battle of the sexes. Here the lady proves a winner in every sense. Several versions of Lucas's popular painting survive.