London Match 1895

History Etched in Patina

Manuf.: Period workshop

Model Match

Spec.: Solid wood, brilliant patina

Year: 1895

(documented or estimated)

Background facts:

The surface of the 1895 Match racquet displays a developed patina created by prolonged handling and long-term exposure to ambient air. The finish has compacted and smoothed through repeated contact over time.

Patina results from physical interaction during play and subsequent storage. Oils transferred from the hand and stable environmental conditions gradually polished the surface. This process produced a consistent sheen and increased surface density.

The racquet remains structurally intact. The patina documents historical use and preservation practices typical of late nineteenth-century tennis equipment.