A GERMAN ENGRAVED PARCEL-GILT SILVER MOUNTED WOOD GAMES BOARD, UNMARKED, CIRCA 1680 |

square, the inside of the cover and lid for backgammon (tric trac), including engraved architectural vignettes, putti with baskets of fruit and scrolling foliage, the covers formed as boards for chess/drafts and merels (Nine Men's Morris), similarly engraved on applied sheets with a cat, elephant, bear and other animals, an insect and  humans in scrolling foliage, engraved lock plates, lock with spring release

Sotheby's,Geneva, 12 November 1985, lot 192

The sheet silver lifting very slightly in the centre of the chess board, a few dents, scratches and minor losses, probably some restorative staining to the wood, excellent colour of gilding, general condition of engraving very good
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This equipage follows the traditional 17th century form of combining these four ancient games in a hinged box. Tric Trac or backgammon on the inside; the chess board which could also be used for drafts, and Merels (Nine Men's Morris) on the outside. The point of the latter game is to make vertical or horizontal lines of three counters in a row shaped like the sail of a windmill, which probably give it its German name, Mühle. This type of games board was usually made of wood, inlaid and veneered to varying levels of sophistication; a speciality of the city of Augsburg where cabinet makers existed in large numbers in the 17th century. They were often decorated with imagery, like the present example, which reflected attributes of the game; the cunning fox, skill of the huntsman, as well as reflecting on themes attached to the game and playing. In the present example one character falls on his backside into foliage while drinking out of his shoe. Shoe form cups were used in the 17th century as part of enjoyment; they encouraged drinking games but drink and games had their negative sides. The form of the box with closing lock, served the additional purpose as a store for the wrapped games pieces. It is difficult to localise this games board on the basis of the engraving. Beakers and other items with similar engraved work can be found in Augsburg where the skills to make such a piece would have existed but can equally be found in Hamburg; for example, where the influence of the Netherlands with its engraving tradition can be felt. An amber games board of this form, attributed to Georg Schreiber, Konigsberg, 1607, is believed to have been the property of James I and in the possession of Charles I at the time of his execution. (Sotheby's, London, European Sculpture and Works of Art, 5 December 2012, lot 80.