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American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
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  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
  • American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
American Folk Art Folding Checkerboard and Backgammon Game Board, Mid-19th Century
$675.00 USD

An exceptional and visually striking American folk art folding game board, dating to the mid-19th century, masterfully combining two classic parlor games in one ingenious design. Constructed of solid wood with original brass hinges, the board folds to resemble a large antique bound volume, its rounded “book” spine adding both charm and functionality while protecting the beautifully preserved playing surfaces within.

The exterior features a boldly hand-painted checkerboard executed in deep forest green with freehand white playing squares, displaying the wonderful irregularity, honest wear, and graphic appeal so prized by collectors of American painted folk art. Opening the board reveals a handsome backgammon playing surface with alternating black and deep green points set against a richly patinated honey-colored wood ground, retaining its original varnished finish and warm mellow surface acquired through generations of careful use.

Wonderfully untouched throughout, this remarkable board possesses all the qualities sought by today’s collectors: original paint, rich patina, bold geometric decoration, and exceptional decorative presence. Equally captivating displayed folded as a sculptural “book” or opened to showcase its striking backgammon interior, it is both a functional gaming object and an outstanding example of 19th-century American country craftsmanship.

A scarce and highly desirable piece of Americana that beautifully embodies the ingenuity, artistry, and enduring appeal of early American folk art.

Dimensions: Open: 19” W × 17” H. Closed: 9½” W × 17” H.

Condition: Retains original painted and varnished surfaces throughout with expected age wear, scattered paint loss, and edge rubbing consistent with nearly two centuries of use. Original brass hinges remain intact and fully functional. A superb, untouched example with exceptional eye appeal and outstanding decorative presence.