Chinese Stick and Ball Game in Ivory. XIX Century. Hand Carved.

Charming Chinese toy made of authentic ox bone, from the 19th century. This ancient object is as simple as popular: it is the stick and ball game, in which the player has to thread the end of the stick into a hole in the ball. This toy is in good condition except for the base, which has been repaired. The big ball, the one with the hole, is joined to another smaller ball by a long cord. The cord goes through a hole which crosses the stick from one side to the other. The cord has been replaced. The stick is probably the most interesting and attractive part of this piece. It has a cylindrical shape and looks like a carved pillar. It stands on a wide round base, so it can be placed upright anywhere. The whole surface is profusely hand-carved with floral motives, which provides it with high beauty and turns it into a decorative item as well as a playful toy. The carving is performed in the shape of flowers surrounded by their own stems and leaves; the center of one of these flowers is just in line with the hole designed to put the cord in. This is a very old game, and though it is believed to be of South American origin, actually it is not completely sure. There is another version in which the stick supports a cup; the player must try to put the ball into the cup. In this case, the definite playful charm of this nice item goes together with the material it is made of (real ox bone) and the lovely hand-carving which covers the whole stick. It is undoubtedly a great present for any collector of ancient or exotic toys, and a very special piece for any lover or Eastern antiques. Measurements: 60 mm width (base) x 175 mm height.