This is a wonderful tricolor Petanque ball hand-made in the city of Lyon near the South of France. Petanque balls were traditionally carved from the root of the Boxwood shrub and subsequently finely pierced with nails all around until you had a robust ball for playing! This ball is rare as it has never or rarely been used as the nails are still in shape and not flattened.
It depicts a heart and diamond design which would have been the lucky signs the player who ordered it asked for.

Petanque is the French variation of “boules” or Bocce for Italians. It was likely made in the 1800s by hand before modern methods for the industrial production of playing balls started.

STORY OF “FANNY”
n Petanque, the French version of Bocce ball or Boules, a picture of plaque of Fanny was in every village square where most games of Petanque would take place. Under the shade of Platane trees. The losing team would march to the depiction of Fanny after the game and give her a ceremonious kiss on the rear.

USAGE (then and now)

To play boules! Though these would go great as decorations, they are ready for a game.

WHAT MAKES THIS PIECE UNIQUE (assembly, condition)

This ball is in great condition. The design the craftsman used to insert the nails is wonderfully done and is equally a great piece of decoration as it is a playing ball.

Boxwood shrubs are a staple of the south of France and it’s interesting to see how resourceful they were to create a game using the natural resources they had access to. You don’t have to be a big fan of Petanque or Boccia to appreciate this craftsmanship.

MEASUREMENTS: 11cm Height /33cm circumference

WEIGHT (kg): 1 kg

Interested in learning more about our third generation antique business and other products we have on offer? Check out our store! UniqueFrenchAntiques

SHOP POLICY & SHIPPING
Postage of all items will be done from France, by Colissimo. This is a safe and fast shipping service that includes a tracking number.

We always inform our customers when the package is shipped and follow up to make sure it’s been well received!

We would also be happy to include a handwritten card detailing the item and time period upon request. If its a present, let us know and we will gladly add your message to it!

As we are selling antiques that are old and unique, we do our best to illustrate all of the wear and tear they may have. Please ask us for any further questions or photos prior to purchasing.