A Set of Nine Edwardian Period Skittles & Three Lignum Vitae Balls c.1900

Origin: British
Period: Edwardian
Provenance: Unknown
Date: c.1900
Heights: 12”
Widths: 5”
Diameter of Woods: 5”

The playworn and tactile set of traditional English pub or garden skittles, comprising nine hand-turned skittles accompanied by three original lignum vitae balls, each hand-crafted around the turn of the twentieth century with each skittle displaying subtle variations in profile and proportion, characteristic of hand-turning rather than later machine production and surviving from Devon, England.

The wonderfully dense timber has mellowed over decades to rich honey, caramel and chocolate tones, with the balls exhibiting the distinctive dark, naturally oily patina for which lignum vitae is renowned. Several skittles retain traces of old white paint to their bases, likely early numbering or club markings, adding further authenticity and evidence of long use. Purchased in Devon, a county with a long tradition of alley skittles and pub games, the set has an honest, untouched character that is difficult to replicate and their condition is consistent with prolonged use and age. All nine skittles and the three balls survive together, an uncommon occurrence, showing numerous knocks, abrasions, shrinkage cracks and surface wear acquired through decades of play. One skittle has an old iron repair or strengthening strap inset into the body, while others display minor historic losses and worn extremities. The lignum balls remain pleasingly smooth with excellent colour and weight.

Skittles has been enjoyed in Britain for centuries, particularly across the West Country where village inns, coaching houses and social clubs often maintained dedicated skittle alleys. Lignum vitae, imported from the Caribbean, was the material of choice for quality examples owing to its exceptional density, durability and self-lubricating properties, allowing both skittles and balls to withstand repeated heavy impacts. Complete period sets are becoming increasingly difficult to source, particularly those that have remained together rather than being broken up over time.

A wonderfully sculptural and decorative survivor of English sporting and social history, equally at home displayed in a country house, games room or interior. The warm tones of the timber and the honest evidence of use give the group tremendous presence, while the completeness of the set making it particularly desirable.