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The royal game of fortifications, table billiards
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The royal game of fortifications, table billiards
The royal game of fortifications, 18th century. Louis XIVs three sons use cue sticks to hit balls through a fortress and onto a fortified structure. Lithograph from Henry Rene Allemagnes Sports and Games of Skill (Sports et Jeux d Adresse), Librairie Hachette, Paris, 1903
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Media ID 23204312
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Allemagne Ball Billiards Dadresse Fortifications Jeux Obstacle Pool Princes Rene Skill Snooker Stick Games
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The Royal Game of Fortifications: A Regal Pastime of War and Strategy This lithograph depicts a regal scene from the 18th century, showcasing Louis XIV's three sons engaged in the intriguing and strategic game of fortifications, also known as table billiards. The princes, dressed in elegant attire, focus intently as they wield their cue sticks to hit balls through a miniature fortress and onto a fortified structure. The game of fortifications was a popular pastime among the European aristocracy during the 17th and 18th centuries. It combined elements of war strategy, skill, and chance, making it an engaging and intellectual pursuit. The table, adorned with a detailed fortress and castle, served as the battlefield for this game. Each player would take turns shooting their ball through the fortress, aiming to land it on the opponent's castle or fortified structure. Obstacles within the fortress could be used to deflect the ball, adding an extra layer of complexity to the game. The first player to successfully land their ball on their opponent's castle won the round. This lithograph, taken from Henry Rene Allemagne's "Sports and Games of Skill," published by Librairie Hachette in Paris in 1903, offers a glimpse into the rich history and elegance of this royal pastime. The princes' focused expressions and the intricate details of the fortress and castle illustrate the game's strategic depth and the aristocracy's appreciation for both war and leisure.
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