(Item 10)
Antique Brunswick-Balke-Collender Co. Billiard Cue, c. 1915
This 57-inch two-piece cue is a premier example of the high-complexity “fancy” cues produced during Brunswick’s golden age. Dating to approximately 1915, it features the sophisticated “Butterfly” splice—a labor-intensive technique where thin layers of contrasting wood are sliced and rejoined to create a flared, wing-like effect.
Construction & Ornamental Detail
This model is defined by its architectural complexity and the use of ultra-dense ebony to provide a powerful, consistent hit.
Multiple Spliced Butterflies: The butt section is adorned with multiple “butterfly” splices. Unlike standard straight points, these flared veneers require extreme precision to align, marking this as a high-tier professional instrument.
Ebony Spliced Shaft: In a “full-ebony” configuration, the shaft features an ebony splice that matches the butt. This ensures a stiff, low-deflection feel and a striking, continuous aesthetic from the joint through the taper.
Mother of Pearl (MOP) Inset & Colored Veneers: A brilliant Mother of Pearl inset serves as the focal point of the handle, framed by multiple layers of colored veneers that accentuate the natural dark grain of the ebony.
Ivory Joint & Ferrule: The cue utilizes a precision-machined ivory-to-ivory joint, the preferred connection for early 20th-century masters seeking “soft” tactile feedback. It is finished with a traditional ivory ferrule at the tip.
Collector’s Perspective
By 1915, Brunswick was perfecting the “professional” cue. The combination of multiple butterflies and an ebony-spliced shaft makes this one of the most technically formidable players’ cues in the collection.
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