Antique French Betting Game. France 1900

Wonderful antique betting game made in France in the early 20th century (1900). This curious and fascinating item is not a toy, but an adult game which was quite popular in turn-of-the-century French cafés. The piece depicts a small horseracing course, circular in shape and mechanically operated. The model that we can see in the photographs includes 8 jockeys but there was a smaller one with just 4 horses. The game is in good condition and remains complete, though some riders have missing parts. Nevertheless, it can be perfectly used and preserves all its characteristic charm. The betting game mounts a square-shaped box with outside fabric lining that hides the mechanism. At the front side of the box there is a silvery-metal plate with the embossed inscription JEU DE COURSE (racing game), with a fine image of a jockey riding his horse. The plate has a groove with a crank, ready to be displaced. To play the game, the gamblers put their money in the central metal bowl. Then, one of them moves the crank 4-5 times to start the mechanism. The person who has picked the horse which stopped closer to the BUT post (finish in French) wins the bet and takes all the money from the bowl. The box that acts as a base is in good condition. The top is covered of green felt, similar to gambling mats and with just some slight signs of wear. The silvery-metal bowl and post are greatly preserved. The metal jockeys are painted in different colors and except for some missing heads (stated before), they remain in good condition. The game is adorned with silvery columns under which the jockeys run; this detail provides the piece with an elegant and charming touch. Perfect to shine in a living room or as part of a great collection of mechanical antiques, this antique betting game will draw anyones attention. Measurements: Side: 13 in / 33 cm.