August 29-30, 2018 Fine Art, Asian & Antiques
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/30/2018
19th century, London. Major Walter Clopton Wingfield defined the rules which would become the modern game of tennis in 1874, he called it "Sphairistike" which is Greek for "ball games." This racket dates from that early lawn tennis time period of approximately 1874-1875. The concave throat is stamped "French & Co 46 Churton St London" and "Sphairistike". The handle sports a replaced sheep skin grip which is historically accurate. The racket's head is in great shape with no defects and the strings are the original two color; four are broken.
Item Dimensions: 27" x 8 - 1/2".