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Bone Games Box

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SKU: 77A/1019 Categories: , Tag:

The Bone Games Box is an intriguing artefact crafted around 1800 by a Napoleonic prisoner of war. It is made primarily from mutton bone and serves as a container for dominoes. This item hails from a time when prisoners across Europe engaged in crafting to pass their time and earn small incomes. The box showcases a simple yet functional design consistent with the limited materials available to prisoners of that era. Its rectangular shape and carefully constructed lid suggest a careful attention to detail, with the pale, slightly yellowed hue of the bone indicating its age and authenticity.

Condition Report

The Bone Games Box is in good condition, exhibiting wear that is consistent with its age and historical use. The surface shows minor abrasions typical of bone objects subjected to handling over centuries. The lid fits snugly, maintaining its original purpose as a protective container for the dominoes within. The joints and edges of the box have been preserved well, attesting to the quality of craftsmanship. Though some slight discolouration is visible, it is a typical characteristic of aged bone, adding to the piece’s historical charm. Overall, the box remains structurally sound, with the dominoes inside intact and retain their original patina.

Dimensions

Weight: 320gm, Length: 15cm, Width: 6cm, Height: 6cm.

A Leisure Pursuit from the Past

This Bone Games Box was originally intended as a leisure item, providing prisoners of war a means to engage in games such as dominoes, which could be played solo or with others. The use of such a box served not only as entertainment but also as a social activity, fostering a sense of community and normalcy amidst the harsh conditions of captivity. The compact design made it easy to store and transport, an essential feature when personal space was limited.

Prisoner-of-War Craftsmanship

This box is a noteworthy example of the craftsmanship developed under the constraints of war-time imprisonment. During the Napoleonic Wars, prisoners had limited access to materials, often relying on resources like bone, straw, and wood. This box exemplifies how prisoners utilised available materials to create functional and sometimes decorative items. The careful carving and assembly of the Bone Games Box reflect the skills honed during these challenging times. The simple aesthetic highlights the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the creator, offering insight into this unique historical craft tradition.

The Art of Bone Carving

The Bone Games Box was likely crafted using small hand tools, with mutton bone being the primary material. Bone carving has a long-standing tradition, often requiring precision and patience. The process would have involved shaping the bone into flat panels, which were then meticulously joined to form the box. The surface of the bone would have been smoothed and polished, providing a tactile finish that has endured the test of time. This item serves as a testament to the artisan’s skill in working with bone, a material that was both accessible and durable.

Crafted by a Nameless Artisan

The Bone Games Box was created by an anonymous prisoner of war during the Napoleonic era. While the maker’s identity remains unknown, their work reflects the widespread practice among prisoners who turned to crafting as a form of expression and sustenance. Many such items were sold or traded, providing prisoners with a sense of purpose and a means to improve their living conditions. The anonymity of the maker adds a layer of mystery to the box, inviting curiosity about its origins and the individual behind its creation.

Sought After by Collectors of Prisoner-of-War Artefacts

Collectors value the Bone Games Box and similar artefacts for their historical significance and unique origin. Items crafted by prisoners of war offer a tangible connection to a specific period of history, providing insights into the daily lives and ingenuity of those who lived through it. Such artefacts are not only appreciated for their craftsmanship but also for their narrative, representing resilience and creativity amidst adversity. Collectors are drawn to these pieces for their ability to evoke stories of the past, making them cherished additions to historical collections worldwide.