Description
in a mahogany cross and chevron banded case, opening to reveal the two parts of the playing board overlaid with paper printed with staves, keyboards, key signatures etc., pierced with numerous holes, the base with central lidded partition containing space for dice shakers, the sides with two small drawers containing ebony and ivory pegs and dice
Dimensions
45cm wide, 11cm high, 45cm deep
Footnote
Note: Ann Young, of St James Square, Edinburgh, was awarded the patent for this games box in 1801. It was the first British patent awarded to an educational game designed for 'amusement and instruction.' It contained six games which were designed, not only to be 'amusing and interesting' but also to teach 'the fundamental principles of the science of music'.
There is a similar example in the National Museum of Ireland.
For further information on Ann Young and the patent, see: 'Inventing Music Education Games' by David Ghere and Fred MB Amran, Cambridge University Press, 2007.