Speelbord c. 1812 - 1813

This is a silver “Speelbord,” or game board, made by Paulus van Beugen between 1765 and 1814. The piece offers a glimpse into the social dynamics of leisure and status during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Van Beugen, who lived through a period marked by significant social and political upheaval, created this small, portable game board reflecting the pastimes of the elite. Games like chess, which would have been played on this board, were not just recreational; they were performances of intellect and strategy, activities deeply intertwined with class identity. The preciousness of the silver and the intricacy of the board suggest a context of wealth and privilege, subtly underscoring how leisure itself can become a marker of social distinction. It allows us to reflect on how even our games are shaped by societal norms, laden with the unspoken rules of class and expectation.