A Table of 1,000 Words: The “History of Australia” Billiard Table

  • August 31, 2011 16:28

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The "History of Australia" billiard table is considered among the most important ever created
M.S. Rau Antiques, New Orleans

One of the most fascinating aspects of collecting antiques is the story each piece has to tell. Each and every antique and work of art in our 30,000 square-foot French Quarter gallery embodies a moment in history that makes it beyond compare.

This breathtaking billiard table is certainly no exception. Known as the "History of Australia" Billiard Table, this award-winning, hand-carved masterpiece with a matching score board has it all: royal provenance, peerless craftsmanship and an impressive international exhibition history to boot.

The Prince of Wales' symbolism denote this historic table's royal provenance
M.S. Rau Antiques, New Orleans

Carved from Australian blackwood by renowned carver George Billyeald, for the Benjamin Hulbert furniture firm in Sydney, this billiard table is recognized as the most outstanding example of Australian woodcarving ever created. Ten massive panels form the basis of the outstanding design, which details the entire history of this wonderful country with breathtaking carvings. From the depictions of the native Aborigines in the bush and the Prince of Wales plumes, to the myriad of native flora and fauna executed in eloquently high relief, every inch of its design is a tribute to the land Down Under.

Australia's Aboriginal roots are depicted in the magnificent high-relief carving that covers this table
M.S. Rau Antiques, New Orleans

After its display at numerous international exhibitions, including the 1886 Colonial and Indian Exhibition in London, this set was sent on loan to Buckingham Palace, where it was admired by Queen Victoria and actually used by the Prince of Wales himself. In fact, the Royal family even offered to purchase the table, but Hulbert refused the offer!

The table subsequently made a world-wide journey after leaving the palace, going at some point back to Australia, then onto locales including New Zealand, Paris, New York, London, finding it's way back to the United States and, eventually, into the M.S. Rau Antiques' collection.

Beauty, rarity, history...it simply doesn't get much better than this. Pieces of this magnitude find their way onto the market once in a lifetime-if you're lucky.

To learn more about the History of Australia Billiard Table, click here

 


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Beauty, Rarity, History: The M.S. Rau Blog

Founded in 1912, M.S. Rau is one of North America’s most respected galleries supported by a team of experts who ensure each piece is vetted for quality and authenticity. A commitment to quality and beauty underpins each of the gallery’s acquisitions; it is a commitment that allows Rau to present only the most exceptional in fine art, antiques and jewels.

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