Jigsaw puzzle

A jigsaw puzzle is a tiling puzzle that requires the assembly of numerous small, often oddly-shaped, interlocking pieces.

Related Topics:
Tiling - Puzzle

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Each piece has a small part of a picture on it; when complete, a jigsaw puzzle produces a complete picture. People solve jigsaw puzzles as a hobby.

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Jigsaw puzzles were originally created by painting a picture on a flat, rectangular piece of wood, and then cutting that picture into small pieces with a jigsaw, hence the name. John Spilsbury, a London mapmaker and engraver, is credited with creating the first jigsaw puzzle around 1760.

Related Topics:
Painting - Jigsaw - John Spilsbury - London - Mapmaker - Engraver - 1760

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Most modern jigsaw puzzles are made out of cardboard, since they are easier and cheaper to mass produce. An enlarged photograph or printed reproduction of a painting or other two-dimensional artwork is then glued onto the cardboard before cutting. The pieces are punch-cut with complex metal dies.

Related Topics:
Cardboard - Photograph - Art - Die

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Typical images found on jigsaw puzzles include scenes from nature, buildings, and repetitive designs. Castles and mountains are two traditional subjects.

Related Topics:
Nature - Building - Castle - Mountain

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