Mother-of-Pearl Gaming Counters, 18th-19th Century

A fine collection of 17 antique mother-of-pearl gaming counters, made in China for the European export market during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The collection includes an appealing variety of shapes, including rectangular, circular, oval, scalloped and fish-form counters. Each is individually carved and engraved, with decoration ranging from flowers and geometric borders to birds, fish and detailed Chinese landscape and domestic scenes. Particularly striking is the large shaped rectangular counter with an engraved monogram surrounded by finely worked floral decoration.

Mother-of-pearl gaming counters such as these were produced in China for wealthy European households and used in fashionable card games including whist, loo and quadrille. Many were specially commissioned with family initials, crests or other personalised decoration.

The natural iridescence of the mother-of-pearl gives the pieces considerable variation in colour as they catch the light, ranging from silvery white to soft pink and green tones.

Very good antique condition overall, with age-related wear, discolouration and occasional small edge losses consistent with their age and use. Please refer to the photographs for individual condition.

The price is for the complete collection of 17 pieces.