Yale Center for British Art

Creator:

R. S. W

Title:

Crystal Palace : the zigzag puzzle.

Alternate Title(s):

Zigzag puzzle

Published / Created:

[England] : [R.S.W.], [late 19th century]

Physical Description:

1 puzzle (approximately 70 pieces + 1 board) : wood ; 15 x 15 x 1 cm

Holdings:

Rare Books and Manuscripts
GV1507.J5 C79 1851 Flat A
Yale Center for British Art, Paul Mellon Fund

Copyright Status:

Classification:

Three-Dimensional Artifacts

Notes:

Title from lithographed label on accompanying box: "Crystal Palace, the zigzag puzzle. R.S.W., trade mark registered."

Similar puzzles, with the same title, where issued in variant sizes. The Jerry Slocum Mechanical Puzzle Collection (Indiana University) includes the puzzle of the present size (6 x 6 inches), as well as variations measuring 4 inches square and 5.5 inches square. The 5.5 inch variation includes an additional printed label: "Crystal Palace, the zig-zag puzzle, prize medal."

Jerry Slocum Mechanical Puzzle Collection, 011248

BAC: British Art Center copy in original green paperboard box, with lithographed title label on top lid.

Wooden mechanical puzzle, a variant form of (and precursor to) the common jigsaw puzzle. Comprises a square wooden board, from which irregular-shaped pieces have been cut away. Into these cutouts are placed 70 wooden pieces (of a lighter shade). The puzzle, or an earlier version, was presumably manufactured for the Great Exhibition of 1851, London, at the Crystal Palace.

Subject Terms:

Crystal Palace (Great Exhibition, 1851, London, England) | Great Britain -- Social life and customs -- 19th century. | Amusements -- Great Britain -- 19th century.

Form/Genre: