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French Malachite Backgammon Board
French Malachite Backgammon Board
French Malachite Backgammon Board
French Malachite Backgammon Board
French Malachite Backgammon Board
French Malachite Backgammon Board
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French Malachite Backgammon Board

  • This exquisitely crafted backgammon board was once owned by the famed Sir Albert Gilbert
  • It is resplendently composed of malachite, gilt brass and dyed leather
  • The Gilberts are among the 20th century's greatest philanthropists and art collectors
  • Exceptional and functional, the backgammon board is the epitome of fine French recreation
  • Get complete item description here
$34,500
Item No. 31-6695

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Description
This stunning malachite backgammon set is almost certainly one-of-a-kind. Handcrafted of malachite, gilt brass and dyed leather, the favorite household game takes a luxurious form in this exquisite objet d’art. The backgammon board is cleverly concealed by two covers featuring exceptional Russian malachite. Its green swirls are resplendently elevated by intricate acanthus leaf ornamentation. The box opens to reveal the gameboard made of perfectly cut original red, black and green leather inlay. Exceptional and functional,. . .
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This stunning malachite backgammon set is almost certainly one-of-a-kind. Handcrafted of malachite, gilt brass and dyed leather, the favorite household game takes a luxurious form in this exquisite objet d’art. The backgammon board is cleverly concealed by two covers featuring exceptional Russian malachite. Its green swirls are resplendently elevated by intricate acanthus leaf ornamentation. The box opens to reveal the gameboard made of perfectly cut original red, black and green leather inlay. Exceptional and functional, the backgammon board is the epitome of fine French recreation. 

Beyond the stunning materials and craftsmanship employed in its construction, this game set is further distinguished by its illustrious provenance. A testament to its immense beauty, exquisite craftsmanship and rarity, the backgammon board was acquired and loved by Sir Arthur and Rosalie Gilbert, among the 20th century’s most renowned philanthropists and art collectors. The couple made their fortune in the plastic, clothier and fashion industries. After retiring at the young age of 35, the couple went on to amass one of the world’s most extensive collections of fine and decorative art. The Gilberts’ collection, most of which was bequeathed to the Victoria & Albert Museum in London at their passing, celebrates some of the most astonishing items ever made, including objects crafted for Napoleon Bonaparte, Frederick the Great and William Beckford.

20th century

4" high x 14 7/8" wide x 23 1/2" deep

Provenance:
Private Collection of Sir Albert Gilbert
Private Collection, London
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
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French Malachite Backgammon Board
Period: 20th Century
Origin: France
Type: Games
Depth: 14.88 in. (37.78 cm)
Width: 23.5 in. (59.69 cm)
Height: 4.0 in. (10.16 cm)
French Malachite Backgammon Board
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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

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The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

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M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private. . .

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

Our experienced fine art consultants offer personalized and confidential fine art consultation services to all clients. Whether you are looking to begin collecting art, grow an existing collection, or redefine your collecting strategy, M.S. Rau can support you on this journey.

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses. . .

For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

Antiques

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

Whether you are just starting your collection, adding to an existing collection or even decorating your home, our team’s knowledge and experience can assist you in your endeavor. We have services and procedures in place to make your acquisition process both enjoyable and efficient.