This charming horse racing game is presented in a well-preserved outer box, although one corner of the lid is slightly loose and can be easily repaired. The box is elegantly covered in black shot silk, featuring an impressed 'SANDOWN' logo on the lid.
The game includes a stunning lacquered wood roulette wheel, complete with an original red bone finishing post. The spinner is uniquely divided into seven unequal segments, each representing a different racehorse: Mr. Pickwick, Peeping Tom, Dorothy, Bolter, Maid Marian, Waverley, and Esmeralda.
Accompanying the game are two 'even chances' cards and the 'odds' cards for each horse, adorned with artwork by Finch Mason, with two designs for each horse. The illustrations on the cards and the spinner depict horses in dynamic poses characteristic of pre-mid-19th century artistry. Additionally, the odds sheet is crafted from paper on canvas and remains in very good condition.
This exquisite piece was produced by F.H. Ayres of Aldersgate Street, London, dating back to approximately 1850-1860. It is a captivating collector's item, perfect for enthusiasts of vintage games and horse racing memorabilia.
Wheel dimensions: 15cm diameter x 2.5cm height
Box dimensions: 16.51 x 16.51 x 9cm
Odds sheet dimensions: measures 112 x 44cm
The box is a Grade 2 due to its still intact and holds together but it does have an ink stain on the inside and is a little beat up on the underside. The cards are near perfect and game wheel is still very much functional and are a Grade 1 under the Hoyles Vintage Grading System.
