Rare Brass-Inlaid Rosewood Game Case

Rare Brass-Inlaid Rosewood Game Case

ca. 1835, New York or British, the campaign-style brass-inlaid rosewood case opening to reveal a gilt-stamped red morocco leather rear cover panel signed "E. Wells Maker New York 1835", fitted with a lift-out mahogany tray with compartments of poker chips and side compartments with various dominoes and dice of varying ages, together with a brass thumbscrew.
h. 3-1/4", w. 18-1/2", d. 10-1/2"
Dimensions: 18.5 x 3.25 x 10.5 in
Condition Report: In overall good condition. On the case cover, the back strip of brass inlay is lacking, there is a small shrinkage crack to the upper left corner, and a small loss of wood to the lower left at edge of brass corner. On the case, there are two losses to the back at cover and left hinge, and a shrinkage crack to the left side. Case has good patina and exhibits a few other cosmetic nicks and scratches. Red leather cover on inside of case has a small loss upper right and a few scratches. The lift-out tray is intact. Bottom beneath tray and underside have been relined with newer green baize (over the red) that has some minor nicks. Both card sets in box are complete with 52 cards and a joker. 27 of the 28 original dominos are present; the 28th is a larger replacement. Face on one domino is heavily abraded. 12 dice of various size; the oldest three with losses to face and corners.