Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Gamblers

Đoko Mazalić, 1920

Name Class Date
Đoko Mazalić, Gamblers (1920), National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Đoko Mazalić originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/doko-mazalic/
Artist’s dates
1888 – 1975
Painted
1920
Medium
Oil On Canvas
Original size
115 x 154 cm
Movement
Academic Realism Highly polished, carefully finished realism taught by the official art schools of the 1800s.
Held at
National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/national-gallery-of-bosnia-and-herzegovina-sarajevo/
Subject or theme
Social gathering in a field

Copyright This work is still under copyright. Đoko Mazalić died in 1975; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it remains in force until 2045. The image is shown here for classroom reference; rights remain with the rights holder.

Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić

How big is it?

The original measures 115 × 154 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1880
  2. 1890
  3. 1900
  4. 1910
  5. 1920
  6. 1930
  7. 1940
  8. 1950
  9. 1960
  10. 1970

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 87 at death.

Painted when the artist was 32. The artist lived to 87. 4 of the 25 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Đoko Mazalić (1888–1975) ▲ this work, 1920 every dated painting, decade by decade

First works: up to 1921 Main working years: 1921–1939 Late works: from 1939

Those three bands split the works this catalogue has a date for into a first quarter, a middle half and a last quarter. They are not the artist’s complete output: a thin stretch may be a gap in the record rather than a quiet spell. The same years with the artist’s life laid along them

Compare with

  • Old Town, 1931 originaluniqueart.com/en/art/doko-mazalic-old-town-D7S9NB-en/
  • Diggers, 1918 originaluniqueart.com/en/art/doko-mazalic-diggers-D7S9MP-en/
  • Dependent, 1928 originaluniqueart.com/en/art/doko-mazalic-dependent-D7S97D-en/

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/doko-mazalic-gamblers-D7S9FX-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Gray #769991

    Catalogued palette

    • #769991
    • #B59E5C
    • #5F5B5E
    • #DAD6C3

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Main colour name
    Gray
    Intensity
    Vivid How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Gentle How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Discordant Palette How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Brilliant How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Balanced Soft How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Đoko Mazalić over the last twelve months — 4 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 66.7%
    2. 2 Bosnia and Herzegovina 11.1%
    3. 3 France 11.1%
    4. 4 United States of America 11.1%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 9 most looked-at works by Đoko Mazalić

    1. 1 Motif from Vranduk, 1920 20.0%
    2. 2 Landscape, 1913 20.0%
    3. 3 Conversation with Flowers, 1964 10.0%
    4. 4 Old Town, 1931 10.0%
    5. 5 Informal Settlement, 1962 10.0%
    6. 6 Periphery, 1962 10.0%
    7. 7 In the foothills of Mount Jahorina, 1956 10.0%
    8. 8 A Heroic End, 1932 10.0%
    9. — Gamblers, 1920 this painting 0.0%

    Together these works take 100.0% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 25 works by this artist, of which 8 were looked at at least once. This painting has not been looked at yet in that time — it closes the list without a rank. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić

    A Gathering in the Verdant Embrace

    This captivating scene, titled "Gamblers," transports the viewer to an idyllic moment suspended in time. It is more than just a portrait of assembled figures; it is a vibrant tableau of human connection set against the backdrop of nature's enduring beauty. The composition draws the eye into a lively gathering within a lush field, where the interplay between the clustered humanity and the surrounding foliage creates a sense of both intimacy and expansive freedom. One can almost hear the murmur of conversation, the rustle of leaves, and the shared laughter echoing across this pastoral setting.

    Mastery of Light and Form

    The artist, đoko mazalić, demonstrates a remarkable command over group portraiture, managing to imbue each individual with a distinct personality while maintaining cohesion within the larger narrative. The figures, dressed in period attire complete with ties and hats, suggest a social occasion—a moment of leisure where worldly concerns seem momentarily suspended. Mazalić’s technique allows the light to play across the varied textures of their clothing and skin, giving depth and dimensionality to what is fundamentally a gathering of souls. The handling of paint suggests an academic foundation blended with a deeply personal touch, characteristic of early 20th-century European genre painting.

    Historical Resonance and Social Commentary

    Dating from 1920, "Gamblers" emerges from a period of significant cultural flux in the Balkans. While the title might suggest a specific activity, the overall mood transcends mere chance; it speaks to the universal human need for community and shared experience. The setting—a natural field punctuated by trees—often symbolizes refuge or the cyclical nature of life itself. It captures that quintessential moment when society pauses its hurried pace to simply exist together, sharing stories under an open sky.

    Emotional Echoes for the Modern Collector

    For the discerning collector or designer seeking a piece that breathes narrative into a space, this work offers profound emotional resonance. It evokes nostalgia for simpler times while celebrating the enduring power of human fellowship. Reproducing such a masterful composition allows one to bring the warmth and sophisticated energy of an early 20th-century salon into contemporary décor. The rich palette and dynamic arrangement ensure that "Gamblers" will serve not merely as decoration, but as a focal point for contemplation and conversation within any room.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Đoko Mazalić

    Born in Bosanska Kostunica, Bosnia and Herzegovina

    early life and education

    đoko mazalić, a renowned bosnian artist, was born in 1888 in bosanska kostajnica. he was one of the first generation of art school-trained painters, alongside notable artists like gabrijel jurkić, petar tiješić, and špiro bocarić. mazalić's artistic journey began with his studies at the academy of fine arts in budapest from 1910 to 1914.

    artistic career and style

    mazalić's body of work is characterized by its stylistic versatility and qualitative consistency. his paintings, particularly landscapes, are among his best works, showcasing his unique interpretation of nature. motif from vranduk (1920), a landscape piece, demonstrates his ability to capture the essence of the natural world. notable works:

    landscape (1913), national gallery of bosnia and herzegovina

    motif from vogošća (1930), national gallery of bosnia and herzegovina

    village under snow (1930), national gallery of bosnia and herzegovina

    teaching and legacy

    from 1923 to 1945, mazalić worked as a teacher in sarajevo, leaving an indelible mark on the art scene. his influence can still be seen in the works of younger artists who followed in his footsteps. view more works by đoko mazalić:

    đoko mazalić's artworks

    the istván dobó museum (eger, hungary) - a rich cultural heritage (featuring a different artist, but showcasing the museum's art collection)

    conclusion

    đoko mazalić's artistic legacy is a testament to his innovative approach and dedication to capturing the beauty of bosnia and herzegovina. his works continue to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike, cementing his place in the annals of bosnian art history. related artists:

    gabrijel jurkić

    petar tiješić

    špiro bocarić

    view more:

    đoko mazalić's profile on AllPaintingsStore.com

    đoko mazalić - wikipedia

    Museum

    National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina

    On show in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

    A Sanctuary of Resilience: The Soul of Sarajevo

    In the beating heart of Sarajevo, a city that has weathered the most profound storms of the twentieth century, stands the

    National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina

    as a luminous testament to the enduring power of human creativity. To walk through its doors is to enter a space where the scars of history meet the triumph of the artistic spirit, offering a profound dialogue between a turbulent past and an aspirational future. It serves as a sanctuary where the collective memory of a people is preserved within the delicate strokes of paint and the heavy textures of stone. The gallery remains a crucial platform where the echoes of history meet the pulse of the present, continuing to serve as a vital organ for a nation seeking to redefine itself through beauty and cultural continuity.

    The soul of the collection lies in its remarkable ability to weave together diverse threads of identity, ranging from the sacred to the avant-garde. Collectors and art enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the

    Ferdinand Hodler Collection

    , where the profound influence of Swiss Symbolism breathes life into landscapes that feel both deeply grounded in nature and spiritually transcendent. This ethereal quality is balanced by the robust presence of Yugoslavian Masters, whose works provide an expansive, sweeping panorama of twentieth-century trends, capturing the complex cultural shifts and the evolving identity of a region in flux. For those drawn to the weight of tradition, the gallery’s

    Icon Collection

    offers a meditative journey through Orthodox Christian heritage, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and devotional intensity of centuries of religious artistry.

    Architectural Elegance and Modernist Ambition

    The architecture of the museum itself serves as a physical manifestation of Sarajevo's modernist ambitions. Designed by the Czech architect

    Karel Pařík

    , the structure is a masterclass in symmetrical elegance, composed of four distinct pavilions that reflect the organized optimism of the post-war period. Each pavilion was originally intended to house specialized departments—archaeology, ethnology, and natural history—and today, this layout creates a rhythmic, exploratory experience for the visitor. The clean lines and modernist aesthetic provide a sophisticated backdrop that complements both the heavy textures of classical sculpture and the ephemeral nature of contemporary installations, making it an inspiring destination for interior designers seeking to understand the intersection of structural form and curated atmosphere.

    Beyond its permanent treasures, the institution distinguishes itself through its commitment to evolution. It remains a vibrant laboratory for what is yet to come, frequently engaging its audience through:

    Rotating photography exhibits

    that challenge modern social dynamics.

    Contemporary art installations

    that bridge the gap between global movements and local identity.

    A continuous dialogue

    between historical preservation and modern artistic expression.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Gamblers

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/doko-mazalic-gamblers-D7S9FX-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Mazalić, Đoko. Gamblers. 1920, National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/doko-mazalic-gamblers-D7S9FX-en/
    APA
    Mazalić, Đoko (1920). Gamblers [Painting]. National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/doko-mazalic-gamblers-D7S9FX-en/
    Chicago
    Đoko Mazalić. Gamblers. 1920. National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/doko-mazalic-gamblers-D7S9FX-en/
    Harvard
    Mazalić, Đoko (1920) Gamblers. National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/doko-mazalic-gamblers-D7S9FX-en/

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: group portraiture, social gathering, outdoor scene. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Old Town (1931), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Academic Realism: Highly polished, carefully finished realism taught by the official art schools of the 1800s. Where can you see that in this work?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić Part 5 · Look closely

    Art quiz

    Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 5 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. What is the title of the artwork?

      • A Motif from Vranduk
      • B Gamblers
      • C Village under Snow

    2. 2. Approximately what year was the painting 'Gamblers' created?

      • A 1913
      • B 1920
      • C 1930

    3. 3. The setting described in the painting is characterized by:

      • A An indoor, formal salon
      • B A natural field with trees
      • C A bustling city street corner

    4. 4. Which country was the artist, đoko mazalić, associated with?

      • A Serbia
      • B Bosnia and Herzegovina
      • C Croatia

    5. 5. The group portrait in 'Gamblers' suggests a theme of:

      • A Warfare and conflict
      • B A social gathering or conversation
      • C Agricultural labor

    My score: ____ out of 5

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1A · 2A · 3A · 4A · 5A

    Check any answer against the catalogue record for this painting

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 27, 2026

    Gamblers — Đoko Mazalić Part 6 · Art quiz

    Questions & Answers

    Can "Gamblers" by Đoko Mazalić, held at the National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina, be legally reproduced?

    The original "Gamblers" is at the National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the work is still protected by copyright.

    What atmosphere would a reproduction of "Gamblers" by Đoko Mazalić bring to a room?

    The nostalgic atmosphere of "Gamblers" by Đoko Mazalić matches its recommended space: a lounge.

    What are the dimensions of the original "Gamblers" by Đoko Mazalić?

    The recorded dimensions of "Gamblers" by Đoko Mazalić are 115 x 154 cm. Reproductions can be ordered in other sizes while keeping the same proportions.