Tortoise Shell Antiquities

Very early American wooden games board; probably the oldest I have handled, this dates to about circa 1835 and exhibits the markings of a typical cottage industry type manufacture (not unlike very early Noah's Arks). Obviously entirely hand crafted; measurements are not exactly square (left to right; top to bottom), probably made of a local soft wood, and hand painted with squares not perfectly delineated. Black light and "loop" inspection reveals age crazing and original paint that, in conjunction with original wear and no attempt to touch up, dates it to the early 19th century. In addition the screws/nails affixed to the hinges are hand forged and in my opinion are of the period I state. In my 50 years of dealing I have had several early 19th century "games" tables; this board game ensemble resembles some of those items. The dice container is also of that vintage. The checker pieces (14 black and 14 yellow) are early and hand carved; while the backgammon pieces in the period box (also hand carved) are turn of the century. Most definitely American, as the last thing an English immigrant would have brought to America at that time would have been a game. When closed, or in the folding position, the board game simulates and is made to look like two books resting side by side (see images), and thusly, was made to sit on a book shelf, either horizontally or vertically; and to be pulled out to play games when desired, which would have been either the game of checkers (draughts), chess, or backgammon. The board opens up to a two sided game option. On one side is the proverbial 64 square (English/ American version) of chess or checkers; and on the other side is a backgammon board. Both sides are hand painted in gold and black, with a rust colored border around the checkerboard. The interior backgammon play area is also black and gold with the same color rust area to the central part. Nail hinges in the center frame, pivot the two sides to open, while a leather covering borders the edge trim, which is 50% lacking on the hinge side. I state the condition to be good, considering it's age, it's use, and the fact that it is still very "usable" and, if taken care of, will probably continue to be so for nearly another 200 years! The checkers, (12) black pieces and (12) yellow (the correct numbers) are hand carved in wood and hand painted. The backgammon pieces (stored in period wooden box) contain 14 yellow hand painted and carved pieces and (13) black ones. (15) of each color are used to play backgammon (simply use the checkers, which are just about the same size (see images) to make up the difference. Most antique game boards...

19th C original painted game board. Nice original Salmon and black paint.

A hand-carved wooden mancala game board showcasing a sculptural and well-balanced form. The top features a series of carved wells used for traditional counting games, while the base ...

This exquisite piece combines timeless design influenced by the European countryside. Shown in our hand-painted lightly distressed Vintage Willow Green and harvest white finish. The...

Antique Wooden Wabi Sabi Planter from Scandinavia, circa 1800s. This beautiful piece makes a perfect planter for bigger plants or tree or just a deco...

Elevate your living space with the soulful charm of our Authentic Scandinavian Wooden Mortar, a piece that encapsulates the essence of rustic beauty and timeless craftsmanship. Haili...

This exquisite piece combines timeless design influenced by the European countryside. Featuring our hand-painted lightly distressed Brown suede and Forofino white painted finish. The...

Danish mangle board (clothing and bedding press) dated from ca. 1750-1800. Made of wood richly decorated with hand-carved geometric patterns and a horse as handle. With original re...

An antique wabi sabi tray with heavy patina from age and use.

A wonderfil antique wabi sabi wooden root bowl with beautiful patina from age and use.

On offer is a handmade Parcheesi game board signed on the back by Alice Muckelston, whose love of the game is expressed in the painted hearts. Parcheesi is an American adaptation of ...

Antique Norwegian Cabinet, made from a 1800s flour chest. Wear consistent with age and use, beautiful patina. The lower hinge lacks a securin...