Box with Gaming Counters
CultureFrench
OriginParis, France
Dateca. 1800
MediumPaper, mixed media, porcelain
Markings“simple,” “double,” “triple,” “quadruple”
DescriptionThe gaming pieces have images of Kings and depict the four suits of card. They were possibly associated with the complex card game of Quadrille, which was extremely popular in France and Britain. The game was simplified and eventually transformed into the game of whist.
These pieces fall into the broad category of the little trinkets, toys, and small objects that were made of porcelain; these include cane handles, scent bottles, elements for games, or little boxes for snuff or candy. As such, they express the range of functional items that would have been used in the private sphere and in a sociable context. They also illustrate the variety of objects made by Paris makers after Sèvres lost its monopoly.
These pieces fall into the broad category of the little trinkets, toys, and small objects that were made of porcelain; these include cane handles, scent bottles, elements for games, or little boxes for snuff or candy. As such, they express the range of functional items that would have been used in the private sphere and in a sociable context. They also illustrate the variety of objects made by Paris makers after Sèvres lost its monopoly.
Credit LineGift of Stephen Brown
Object numberG19.10.5a-f
Classifications
European CeramicsSub-classification
French PorcelainStatus
On view
Artist / Maker: Workshop of Piero Bergantini
1537
Object number: G83.1.351
in the style of 17th century Nevers, possibly later production
Object number: G12.14.7.1-2
Artist / Maker: Höchst Porcelain Factory
ca.1755
Object number: G96.5.256a-d
