Introducing the 'Electrical Mah Jong' card game, expertly manufactured by Thomas De La Rue for Western Electric Co. Ltd. This unique set serves as a commemorative souvenir from the 1924 British Empire Exhibition held in Wembley, London.
The game includes 154 gold-edged playing cards that feature various electrical products, such as radios, cables, and telephones, all produced by the Western Electric Company between 1875 and 1924. The historical electrical objects depicted on the cards were also showcased at the Western Electric Company exhibit during the exhibition.
Accompanying the game is a booklet titled “The Pocket Guide to Electrical Mah Jong,” dated 1924. The guide highlights Western Electric's significant contributions to advancing international communications, noting that over half of the world’s telephones have been manufactured by the company. The pamphlet outlines a notable timeline of the development and installation of telephone equipment, wireless technology, and related infrastructure that showcases over 50 years of innovation.
In the game, suit symbols include Phones (P), Radio Valves (R), and Cables (C). The Winds are represented by East, South, West, and North, while Dragon Cards feature Arial (Red), Earth (Green), and Ether (White). Red Honour Cards denote significant periods: 1875, 1898, 1918, and 1924. Green Honour Cards represent symbols of the Western Electric Company Limited, including notable phrases such as “WEC,” “Quality First Cables and Telephones,” and “Western Electric Modern Domestic.”
This rare vintage game is a distinguished piece that merits a place in any collector's collection, inviting players to experience both the fun of Mah Jong and the rich history of electrical innovation.
Superb condition, the cards themselves are all mint. The box shows wear and tear but still folds open and has a leather slot for the rules booklet on the inside lid, the tabs to pull the cards out of the box are frayed. Most of the score cards are still present and unused and the original rules booklet is in great condition. Grade 2 under the Hoyles Vintage Grading System.
