J. Ashcroft & Co., Liverpool, Walnut-Inlaid Snooker Table and Cabinet

fourth quarter 19th century, the eight-legged table with inlaid details along the lower edge of the aprons, accompanied by a rare double-door cabinet with a recursive image of this table, players and this cabinet inlaid on the front, opening to a fitted interior featuring a scoreboard, cue holders and four long storage drawers.
pool table h. 34", d. 80", l. 150", cabinet h. 84-1/2", w. 55", d. 21"

Provenance: M. S. Rau Antiques, New Orleans, Louisiana.

Notes: This table relates very closely to the No. 28 Imrie Model, which the company described as their "more elaborate table - for the discerning gentleman!" James Ashcroft was awarded the Gold Medal for Excellence of his Billiard Table in 1886 at "The International Exhibition of Navigation-Traveling, Commerce and Manufacturing".

The table is in good "as found" condition. Minor wear to the finish along the rails. Dryness to the lower portion of the legs. Some of the legs with age cracks. Minor, scattered losses to the sawtooth inlay. May require new felt. The cabinet is in very good condition. Retains a very pleasing patina. NOTE: The corner pockets are smaller and rounded, presumably for snooker.