Grace Your Home with an Antique Game Table
Unlike the modern game table found in many homes today, antique game tables are smaller and come in a variety of styles. Some of them are also very unique and double as a beautiful piece of furniture.
Today when someone talks about getting a game table, they are often referring to pool, ping pong, air hockey or foosball. But most of these types of games have not been around for very long, and some are as new as the 1970’s! But you can find antique game tables, and they are very nice, stylish and collectible. But they cannot be used for table tennis, hockey or foosball!
Most antique game tables are smaller than what we think of today, and are made of wood. Some were also quite ingenious. One I found was a beautiful mother of pearl and ebony table made in China in the mid 19th century. It was wonderfully inlayed with detailed oriental scenery and figures. This game table had a single, three footed leg, though most I found had the traditional four legs! The sides of the table curved inwards and the corners were rounded and fancy. The center of the table had a removable chess board on one side, and the table design on the other. When the chess board was removed, a recessed backgammon board was revealed on the inside of the table, and there was also a small drawer for storing game pieces.
The idea of a removable chess board with a recessed backgammon board underneath was not unique. Another game table I found was similar, but had some other unique features. This second table is round, made out of hardwood with a light finish and a beautiful inlay design. It has two drawers and, more unusual, four drink holders that pull out from the sides. This style table is heavily reproduced.
Many square or rectangular tables opened up to reveal a felt playing surface underneath, perfect for cards. Though a , perhaps you need the modern version that invites rowdy game play for the whole family. But perhaps your life has quieted down and you mainly enjoy cards and some board games with friends. Then perhaps you should look around for an antique game table to grace your home and impress your friends.
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