Tattare d'Usbec from playing cards "Jeu d'Or" 18th century

This playing card, titled "Tattare d'Usbec" from the "Jeu d'Or" set, offers a glimpse into cross-cultural representation during its time. While the artist remains anonymous, the card reflects the complex ways in which people from different regions were perceived and portrayed. The figure depicted, identified as a "Tatar of Uzbekistan," is adorned in clothing that blends stereotypical signifiers of "Eastern" identity with fanciful elements. This representation reflects the limited and often biased understanding Europeans had of Central Asian cultures. Questions arise about the emotional impact of such depictions on both the individuals represented and the viewers engaging with these images. Does this card perpetuate Orientalist stereotypes, or does it offer a moment of cross-cultural exchange? How does the card reflect the societal attitudes towards those of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds? These are questions that remain relevant today.