Victorian Chippendale Hardwood Revolving Billiard Cue Stand, 1880

Details

Description

Exceptionally rare and imposing Victorian mahogany revolving billiard, snooker and pool cue stand, dating to circa 1880 and quite simply … Read more Exceptionally rare and imposing Victorian mahogany revolving billiard, snooker and pool cue stand, dating to circa 1880 and quite simply one of the finest examples of its type we have encountered.

Considerably larger and more architecturally elaborate than the conventional revolving cue stands of the period, it is constructed around a monumental central column flanked by three tall outer pillars and surmounted by substantial carved architectural finials. The quality and quantity of decorative work is particularly impressive, with extensive Gothic and Chinese Chippendale-inspired pierced fretwork, moulded and fluted columns, geometric tracery and finely shaped architectural details throughout. The circular lower platform incorporates numerous green-baize-lined apertures for cue butts, corresponding with the original bone and brass cue clips above, while the entire cue-holding assembly revolves, allowing convenient access from all sides. The deeply moulded circular base is raised on substantial square-section legs decorated with further pierced fretwork, giving the stand the appearance of a miniature piece of Victorian architectural joinery rather than simply sporting equipment. The stand displays a superb rich mahogany colour and wonderfully genuine period character, with the expected age-related marks, rubbing and minor imperfections visible in the photographs. Victorian billiard-room furniture has become increasingly collectible, but examples of this extraordinary scale and decorative ambition are exceptionally difficult to find. A magnificent piece of 19th-century English sporting furniture, equally suited to an important billiard room, private club, country house or serious sporting collection.

Dimensions Height: 142cm Width: 57cm Depth: 57cm See less