Mid-19th Century Antique Victorian “Amusement” Parlor Game of Mosaic Tiles

Rare antique Victorian parlor game or “amusement” with triangular wooden tiles in a sliding box. The game is titled “New/Improved Game in Mosaic” in German, French and English above a charming print showing two children at a table in the garden (presumably playing the game!). Two fanciful borders in floral and feather motifs surround the center print. The wood box is painted a bright green with a black floral motif as a front border. Inside, there are 31 yellow and 20 black double sided triangular wood tiles and two paper cards with 15 mosaic patterns each, guides to create patterns with the tiles as one would with a tangram puzzle. Although the maker is unknown, the box design is similar to a circa 1825 puzzle in the Victorian & Albert Museum, listed as made in Germany and sold in England. The puzzle’s colors and motifs are also similar to several mid-1800s “Rococo Mosaic” games sold in London and at auction.

Condition is quite good, consistent with age and use. There is wear and paint loss along the edges, soiling on the back, the front sliding piece has been repaired and there are several pencil marks on the front, including the name Horace, the letter H and a little graffiti on the faces! The pattern cards show handling wear. Please see photos for detail and condition.

Measures 5 1/4″ w x 5 1/4″ h x 1/2″ d.