Wooden Playing Card Press – Turned Spindle, Rare Sliding Lid, 6 Press Boards, One-of-a-Kind – 1890s

Wooden presses of this type were used in the late 19th century to gently flatten playing cards under constant pressure. They were a common part of early card-playing culture and served to restore heavily used decks to their original shape.

This handcrafted solid-wood press dates from the 1890s and represents an authentic tool from the early period of bourgeois card-playing culture. Its construction and workmanship clearly reflect the traditional cabinetmaking techniques of that era.

Handcrafted solid wood press, 1890s

Turned wooden spindle with classic screw knob

Solid wooden body with hand-cut dovetail joints

Rare and functional sliding lid with precisely cut groove

Inside: 6 original press boards – ideal for pressing several card decks at the same time

Warm, even patina and an authentic overall appearance

A younger, originally sealed Skat deck is included as a small extra

Historical context & construction:

The entirely wood-based construction, the hand-turned spindle, and the traditional dovetail joinery are typical features of late 19th-century craftsmanship. The sliding lid and the fully preserved press boards make this example particularly appealing for collectors.

Condition:

Surfaces show light age-related wear

Spindle turns smoothly and reliably

Sliding lid operates easily

Overall well preserved and fully functional

Dimensions (outer size of the press box):

Length: approx. 24.5 cm

Width: approx. 13.5 cm

Height: approx. 8.5 cm

Small extra:

A younger original Skat deck is included with the set

The item has been carefully inspected and is in the condition described above.
Shipping will be carried out carefully packed via DHL with tracking.

If you have any questions or would like additional detailed photographs, please feel free to contact me.
This is an original one-of-a-kind piece.