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CANVASES, CARATS AND CURIOSITIES

Gaming Antiques for Your Game Room

Everyone needs an escape from the craziness of every day life. What better way to have an escape than decorating a space with a collection of amazing, one of a kind gaming antiques? Whether you enjoy playing a relaxing game of chess or the thrill of a 20th century slot machine, our inventory has amazing antique gaming pieces for your game room sanctuary.

 

 

 
The Battle of Issus Chess Set

The Battle of Issus Chess Set

 

 


The Battle of Issus Chess Set

A chess set is a must-have for any gaming room. Played by millions of people worldwide, this game of kings is the perfect way to keep the mind sharp. This stunning antique chess set in particular is truly spectacular. The luxury and detail is hard to overlook, making it a stunning decoration as well as a stimulating game. Crafted by an extraordinary jeweler for his daughter, the entire board is encrusted with semiprecious gemstones and vibrant enamel, and not a single detail has been overlooked. The board tells the story of the ancient battle of Issus whose actors include gods and goddesses, ancient structures and creatures of both Greek and Persian origin. Each character is represented by a completely unique 14K gold game piece that displays a mechanical movement with a slight twist of its base — almost bringing the battle to life! The blending of superb mechanics and aesthetics makes this game board a perfect addition to a game room.

 

 

 
The Mills Dewey-Chicago Triplet Slot Machine

The Mills Dewey-Chicago Triplet Slot Machine - Sold

 

 

The Mills Dewey-Chicago Triplet Slot Machine


A wonderful artifact of Americana, this antique slot machine would be a perfect addition to your getaway room! This incredible Mills Dewey-Chicago triplet model is the only one of its kind known to exist today. Crafted by Mills Novelty Company in Chicago, these machines were created and distributed between 1903 and 1916. This example features three slot machines in one oak case that play for nickel, quarter, and half dollar amounts. This triplet model includes two Dewey machines flanking a Chicago in its center, creating three antique slot machines in one! It also includes a cylinder music box at its base that plays each time the machine is activated. This was a clever way to cheat gambling laws, as each time a player pulls a slot they are essentially '“buying a song.” The majority of early gaming machines such as this one were destroyed when gambling was outlawed in the first half of the 20th century, making this piece truly a one-of-a-kind. Discover More Antique Slot Machines ➤

 

 

 

 

French Gothic Revival Billiard Table

French Gothic Revival Billiard Table - Sold
 

French Gothic Revival Billiard Table

Every game room needs a pool or billiards table. The game of billiards has deep roots in 19th century French royalty, as it was a favorite pastime for kings and aristocrats. This specific antique billiards table, dated to 1830, is exceptionally rare and beautifully engineered. Crafted of rosewood, each panel is adorned with friezes of detailed inlay depicting victorious France. The massive spiral-columned legs of the table cleverly disguise trap-door ball releases. It also features two functioning game tables integrated into the bumpers at each end as a brilliant and discrete way to keep accurate score. This striking table would demand attention at the center of your game room. Discover More Antique Billiard Tables ➤

 

 

 

 

Japanese Backgammon or Sugoroku Game Set

Japanese Backgammon or Sugoroku Game Set - Sold
 

Japanese Backgammon or Sugoroku Game Set

Another piece that can function as both a decoration and an amusing game is this antique backgammon and sugoroku set. The Japanese Meiji-period box is decorated in exquisite golden lacquer depicting a beautiful foliate motif. This antique set is complete with ivory game pieces and a lacquered dice shaker. Sugoroku has kept people entertained for centuries. It is believed to have become popular in Japan sometime during the 6th century after making its way from Persia and through China. This piece is just as beautiful as it is entertaining and will certainly bring an air of elegance to your next game night. Discover More Gaming Antiques ➤

 

 

 

 

Victorian Games Compendium

 

Victorian Games Compendium - Sold
 

Victorian Games Compendium

Circa 1890, this exceptional antique Victorian compendium includes everything necessary for an entertaining evening at home. The chest itself is beautifully constructed from oak decorated with remarkable bronze mounts. The double level case is full to the brim with multiple games, including chess, checkers, cards, and dominos. Every game is tucked neatly in an appropriate spot within the entertainment chest. The checkers/chess board is inset into the lid that also doubles as a surface for playing dominos on the reverse. Each card holder is adorned with a diamond, heart, spade or club, accompanied by four dishes to hold the die. Compendiums such as these were wildly popular in the homes of 18th and 19th century families, as home entertainment was a highly regarded social activity. Revealing this chest of games next time you have guests over would certainly be a delight! Discover More Gaming Antiques ➤

 

 

 

 

Rare Ice Age Cave Bear Skeleton

Rare Ice Age Cave Bear Skeleton - Sold
 

Rare Ice Age Cave Bear Skeleton

No game room is complete without exquisite decoration! This ginormous cave bear skeleton is the perfect, fearsome fit for a room of tricks. Measuring over eight feet tall, the skeleton is an incredible relic of prehistoric times. It almost certainly roamed the Ural Mountains of Russia and was one of the most fearsome animals of its time. Ice Age cave bears are to this day the largest of all great bears. Now extinct, they were both worshiped and hunted by prehistoric man. Caves once inhabited by humans of the time have been found containing cave bear skulls upon altars and arranged in specific formations. Mounted in its attack position, it would certainly be a thrill to play a game of chess under this beast’s watchful eye. Discover More Unique Antiques

 

 

 

 

Explore M.S. Rau’s entire collection of gaming antiques on our website.

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