Strategy Game Set – 18th-century Norman Folk Art

A large carved wooden box, the lid of which forms a rectangular game board with 54 squares (9 x 6) featuring surfaces that alternate between smooth and finely guilloché. This unusual grid was intended for strategy, tactical, or hunting games (such as the “fox game”).
The bas-relief front features a naive design consisting of two birds facing each other, framing a crown and surmounting a fish—a motif reminiscent of the decoration found on wedding chests and trunks from the region. The interior retains its red-and-white striped canvas lining. Wrought-iron hinges and fasteners.

Normandy, 18th or early 19th century.

Dimensions: length 38 cm – depth 24 cm – height 16 cm.

A rare item, in used condition, showing woodworm holes, wear, and missing sections, primarily at the corners and on the back, all documented in the photographs.