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Billiard Table Collection (#3)

"Exploring the Artistic Evolution of Billiard Tables




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"Exploring the Artistic Evolution of Billiard Tables: From Van Gogh's Night Cafe to Victorian Christmas Cards" Billiard tables have been a source of inspiration for artists throughout history, capturing the essence of leisure and camaraderie. Vincent Van Gogh's iconic painting, "Night Cafe, " depicts a bustling scene where billiard tables serve as focal points, inviting patrons to engage in friendly competition. The vibrant colors and expressive brushstrokes bring these games to life. In 1929, an unidentified American pool hall was immortalized through photography. This snapshot captures the ambiance of a bygone era, with players engrossed in intense matches while others observe from afar. It showcases how billiards transcends time and remains a beloved pastime. Photographer Lewis Hine documented boys shooting pool at the Pool Branch Chauteau & Manchester in St. Louis during 1910. Through his lens, he captured their youthful enthusiasm and determination as they honed their skills on the green felt surface. Even political cartoons embraced billiards as symbols of rivalry and strategy. A lithograph from the presidential election of 1864 portrays Abraham Lincoln playing bagatelle against General George B. McClellan—a playful metaphor for their political battle. Albert William Holden's artwork titled "Billiard Room" transports us to an elegant setting where refined individuals engage in spirited matches amidst opulent surroundings. The attention to detail highlights both the game itself and its social significance during that period. An eventful confrontation depicted in a color lithograph immerses viewers into an intense moment on the billiard table—an embodiment of skillful precision combined with strategic thinking. The anonymous creator behind "Billiards" after 1803 presents us with an intriguing glimpse into historical gameplay techniques—showcasing how this popular sport has evolved over centuries. Perkins Harnly's photographs from 1890-1942 capture various pool rooms across different eras, showcasing the changing aesthetics and atmospheres surrounding billiard tables.