Rare Antique English Clare College Cambridge University Hand Painted Rowing Oar Repurposed Pipe Shelf Rack Tobacciana

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This exceptional antique wall-mounted rack is crafted from the wooden blade end of an original Clare College, Cambridge University rowing … Read more This exceptional antique wall-mounted rack is crafted from the wooden blade end of an original Clare College, Cambridge University rowing oar, dating to circa 1915, and stands as a rare and evocative piece of British collegiate sporting history. Handmade and richly aged, the surface exhibits a wonderful, honest patina developed over more than a century of life, enhancing its authenticity and character. The front is adorned with a hand-painted Clare College shield, while bold yellow and black painted bands near the base add strong visual contrast and unmistakable rowing heritage. A copper metal band at the bottom provides both structural reinforcement and a refined decorative finish.

Measuring 32 inches high, 5.5 inches wide, and 3 inches deep, the sculptural vertical form retains the beautiful natural curvature of the original oar blade, giving it a striking architectural presence when displayed on the wall. There is a simple string hook on the back for hanging. Original untouched aged patina. Please review the photos for further condition assessment.

Three integrated shelf brackets create functional storage, with 4.5 inches of clearance between the two lower shelves, making the piece ideal for displaying or storing smoking pipes, spoons, small collectibles, or gentleman’s accessories. The thoughtful conversion from sporting equipment to interior furnishing reflects early 20th-century ingenuity and craftsmanship.

Clare College—founded in 1326 and one of the oldest colleges of the University of Cambridge—is renowned for its rowing tradition, its celebrated chapel choir, and its picturesque gardens along the River Cam. This piece would have once been part of that storied athletic culture, linking it directly to Cambridge’s historic rowing legacy.

Equally suited to a study, library, man cave, or academic interior, this rowing oar blade rack is both decorative and functional, offering a rare opportunity to own a genuine artifact that seamlessly blends sporting history, collegiate heritage, and sculptural design. See less