Vintage petanque balls, lot of 13 pieces, engraved, retro metal look

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Visual Description

This lot includes thirteen antique pétanque balls, visible in the photo, with a patinated metallic appearance. Each ball displays a distinct engraved design, mainly composed of lines and geometric patterns, typical of traditional manufacturing. The surfaces show shades ranging from steel grey to brown, a result of natural oxidation and prolonged use, giving the set an authentically vintage character.

The finish varies from one ball to another: some have a matte, browned patina, while others still reveal lighter metallic reflections, indicating differences in wear or base material. The engravings, sometimes cross-shaped, sometimes circular, are clearly visible on the exposed face, highlighting the diversity of models present in this lot.

Several balls show significant signs of use such as scratches, impacts, or areas of oxidation, characteristic of used pétanque balls that have been played with on the field. No legible logo or brand appears clearly in this view, but the variety of patterns suggests different origins or manufacturers, consistent with the "diverse brands" in the keywords.

The set offers a beautiful representation of the retro aesthetic of pétanque balls from the mid to late 20th century, appreciated for their robustness and authentic appearance, both for playing and for vintage decoration.

The balls are arranged to clearly expose their top faces and part of their profiles, allowing for close observation of the surface texture, signs of wear, and color variations due to age and use. No accessories or cases are visible in the image.

Condition

These pétanque balls are used and sold as is. Patina from use, scratches, traces of oxidation, visible wear on all pieces. The engravings remain clearly marked despite the passage of time.

Did you know? Pétanque, as we know it today, was codified in 1907 in La Ciotat, Provence. The first metallic balls appeared in the 1920s, gradually replacing the wooden models studded with nails. The engraved patterns, still visible on these antique examples, were often chosen to allow players to easily recognize their own balls on the field.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging by a professional seller specializing in antique and vintage items.

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