Billiard Ball Skull #15

These one of a kind vintage Bakelite billiard ball were recently carved into human skulls by a Balinese artist. The first billiard ball was produced in 1588 from Kenyan elephant tusks – only 3 or 4 balls per tusk. In the mid-1800s, ivory became too expensive, ironically because of the danger to hunters (not to mention the killing of thousands of elephants.) A $10,000 reward was offered to anyone who could create a new material for billiard balls. First came nitrocellulose, which off times exploded when struck, then celluloid, followed by Bakelite in 1909. Bakelite balls were manufactured between 1909 and 1942. Assorted colors and numbers may be available. Please call us at 508-945-1288 for current availability. 2" high x 1.75 wide x 2.25" deep.