£120.00
A charming and unusual antique boxwood treen dice shaker complete with its original pair of miniature bone dice, dating from the late 19th century.
Beautifully turned from boxwood, the cylindrical shaker retains a warm honey-coloured patina acquired through years of handling and use. The screw-top lid fits neatly to the body, creating a compact and practical gaming accessory that would have been carried in a gentleman's pocket, travelling games set, or kept within a games cabinet.
Accompanying the shaker is a matching pair of finely made miniature bone dice, displaying excellent colour and wear consistent with age. The combination of the original shaker and dice is increasingly difficult to find, particularly in such a compact and complete form.
Objects of this type were popular throughout the Victorian period, when dice games remained a favoured pastime in clubs, taverns, country houses, and domestic settings. Today they are highly sought after by collectors of treen, gaming antiques, gambling memorabilia, and Victorian curiosities.
The beautifully aged boxwood surface, coupled with the original bone dice, gives the piece considerable charm and authenticity. A delightful example of antique treenware and a wonderful addition to a collection of games-related antiques.
Origin - England
Date - Late 19th Century
Material - Turned boxwood with original bone dice
Good antique condition with age-related wear and minor surface marks consistent with use. The boxwood retains a rich patina and the screw-top lid functions as intended. Original pair of miniature bone dice present.
Height: 4.5 cm / 1.77 inches
Width: 2.5 cm / 0.98 inches
Depth: 2.5 cm / 0.98 inches
Every item offered by Shackleton Fox is carefully inspected, prepared, and where necessary conserved within our workshop prior to sale.
As heritage craftsmen and antique specialists, we believe in preserving the authenticity and integrity of each piece. Original finishes, patina, wear, and signs of age are retained wherever possible, as these elements contribute to both character and historical significance.
When restoration, rewiring, repairs, or conservation work is required, it is undertaken sympathetically using traditional techniques and materials appropriate to the period of the piece. Our philosophy is one of careful stewardship rather than unnecessary restoration, ensuring antiques remain both functional and historically respectful.
The result is a collection of pieces that have been thoughtfully prepared, allowing future owners to enjoy them with confidence while preserving their unique story and character.
