I swooned when I saw this/these, and I'm still swooning. It is a 2nd half of the 18th-century Quadrille gaming counter and scoring box, most likely French or Belgian, which would once have been a part of set of four boxes, one for each suit. The lid incorporates a rotating scoring dial with a clubs emblem and numbered scoring window, which rotates 1 through 10 (represented by an X) by using the silver button to turn it. The red painted/japanned wooden body retains remnants of gilt and chinoiserie-style decoration, including what looks like a bird on the underside. The interior, painted black and retaining its original brass fittings, houses 20 bone gaming counters etched and painted on both sides with a club in delicious rich black. Of course I'd like to have all four boxes, but that might take a lifetime of hunting--I was very thrilled to find these still in their box!
Box measures 3 3/8" x 2 1/2" x 15/16" t. Very good very antique condition, with general wear as expected. Box in very good structural condition, hinges well attached, etc. Dial turns smoothly and completely through all numbers, though I'd take a little care doing it. Counters etched/painted with clubs on both sides.
You might also like
