Preston Park Museum's most renowned painting returns to public display

The iconic painting has returned from France, following its recent loan to the Jacquemart-André Museum in Paris, where it has been on display since September 2025. 

Painted around 1650-1651 by French Baroque master Georges de La Tour, The Dice Players depicts a tense, candlelit game of chance. Though the candle itself is hidden, its warm glow illuminates the faces, armour and expressions of the players, creating a captivating atmosphere characteristic of de La Tour's dramatic use of light.

Known for his intimate scenes and fascinated by the play of artificial light, La Tour produced several night scenes lit by candlelight which have become iconic, including The Dice Players. The return date is significant as 13 March marks La Tour's Birthday.

One of only a small number of de La Tour's paintings held in Britain, The Dice Players has been part of Stockton-on-Tees' heritage since the 1930s. It was bequeathed to Stockton Corporation by Annie Elizabeth Clephan, in memory of her father, Edwin.

For many years, the painting remained stored in the museum's attic along with the rest of the art collection, its true importance unknown. That changed in 1972, when a routine valuation uncovered its real significance. Christopher Wood of Christie's recognised an inventory entry for an "old painting" titled Throwing the Dice by de La Tour, sparking widespread interest and excitement. What had once been overlooked quickly became Preston Park Museum's most renowned artwork.

The rare painting is now back on permanent display at its home at Preston Park, ready to be enjoyed by visitors once again.

Following its return from France, a specialist conservator carried a detailed condition check and light conservation work, including colour work on the frame, ensuring the masterpiece continues to be preserved for future generations.

Councillor Nigel Cooke, Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure and Culture at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: 

The Dice Players is one of our most iconic artworks and we know our visitors have been eagerly awaiting its return.While it's always a pleasure to share this rare painting with international audiences, there is something very special about welcoming it home. We are thrilled to have it back on display, where it will continue to be a highlight for everyone who visits Preston Park Museum.

This is part of our commitment to ensuring Preston Park is a destination attraction that will bring visitors from around the region and the rest of the UK to Stockton-on-Tees.

Following a multi-million-pound extension, The Spence Building, along with wider park improvements, visitors to Preston Park are able to access a unique cultural and heritage offer in the Tees Valley without having to travel outside of the region.

The loan of The Dice Players to the Jacquemart-André Museum formed part of the museum's commitment to working with other cultural institutions.

Lending artworks allows new audiences to experience important pieces, strengthens relationships with other museums and helps raise the profile of Stockton's collections on the world stage. The loans also provide valuable opportunities for in‑depth conservation and expert study, supporting the long‑term care of artworks.

Booking information

To view the painting, visitors will need either an annual or day Museum Pass, which they can buy online.

Buy your museum pass before your visit