Nieuw vermakelijk ganzenspel c. 1831 - 1889

This charming game board, "Nieuw Vermakelijk Ganzenspel," likely made in the 19th century, is a circular journey presided over by the goose. This humble fowl is no mere bird; it is a symbol of prosperity and luck, seen even in ancient Roman mosaics, linked to the goddess Juno. The game progresses around a spiral path punctuated by allegorical pitfalls and opportunities. Note the reoccurring image of dice which adds an element of chance. Dice is an ancient tool and one of the oldest gaming devices known to man. The goose motif echoes through time, appearing in medieval bestiaries, representing vigilance and domesticity, qualities vital for success in life's game. The cyclical nature of the board itself embodies the eternal return, mirroring the rhythms of life, death, and rebirth. This game is not merely a pastime; it's a symbolic voyage through the human condition, tapping into our collective desires for fortune and fulfillment. The visual narrative engages our subconscious, reminding us of life's unpredictable path.