Antique 1830 Margret McDonald of Scotland Age 10 William IV Needlework Sampler

Ten carpet balls crafted in stoneware, decorated and glazed in several different colors and designs including a white cue ball.

This rare Biedermeier beaded bag from the 19th century is a fine example of early European beadwork, both decorative and rich in storytelling detail. The round bag features an elabor...

A set of four antique Minton tiles after designs by Dutch Delft tiles, sourced from an ex British private collection. Dating to circa 1860, these striking 5-inch tiles have been in ...

Discover a captivating piece of childhood history with this charming and rare early 19th-century folk art rocking horse. This exquisite antique, showcasing the distinctive character ...

George IV English embroidered needlework tapestry sampler picture by Elizabeth Castle dated 1829 in walnut frame. Dimensions: Height 20 inches. ...

Beautiful, unique Boule ball pair, France, late 19th Century. Diameter 9,4 cm. In the 19th century, the manufacture of boules balls underwent significant development in France as th...

Beautiful, unique Boule ball pair, France, late 19th Century. Diameter 9,5 cm. In the 19th century, the manufacture of boules balls underwent significant development in France as the game of boules, particularly the pétanque variant, gained in popularity. The manufacture of boules balls during this period was a manual process that required expertise, precision and love to detail. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in rural areas of France and other Mediterranean regions, olive wood was a commonly used source of material for making boules balls. This was not only due to the availability of the material, but also to the outstanding properties of olive wood, which was characterized by hardness, strength and a rich grain. First, the olive wood was carefully selected and shaped into raw balls, which were then sanded to the desired size and shape. The nails were then hammered into the balls one by one, making sure that they were evenly distributed and firmly anchored. Finally, the spheres were polished and coated with a protective varnish to enhance their natural beauty and protect them from the elements. The use of nails to decorate and reinforce olive wood boules was a traditional practice that not only gave the ball a rustic aesthetic, but also improved its durability and contributed to customization. Many balls were made according to the specific requirements and preferences of the players. Nails were driven at regular intervals around the ball, with each nail hole precisely placed so as not to affect the balance and weight distribution of the ball. These nails not only served as a decorative element, but also helped to strengthen the structure of the ball and make it more resistant to the hard knocks and wear and tear during play. Individual engravings or decorations were often applied to the balls to make them unique and identify the player. Antique boules...

Beautiful, unique Boule ball pair, France, late 19th Century. Decorated with the numer "3" on each ball and with a "V" on one of the Boule balls. In the 19th century, the manufactur...

Beautiful, unique Boule ball pair, France, late 19th Century. In the 19th century, the manufacture of boules balls underwent significant development in France as the game of boules,...

Beautiful, unique Boule ball pair and one target ball, France, late 19th Century. Decorated with the numer "3" on each of the Boule balls. In the 19th century, the manufacture of b...