Boules

A few years ago, Mary Gilbert drug me to the 20eme to what was advertised as a "grande brocante" that would cover many streets in Quartier Saint-Blaise. We had visions of miles and miles of antique French treasures that we could snatch up at a great price. What we found was similar to American garage sales, rows upon rows of less than chic items. We were rather discouraged until I spotted what might have been the best item anyone had to offer.  This vintage pétanque set in a worn case caught my eye. If I could have figured a way to fly it home, it would be mine.  Alas, I had to pass it up.

Here in the states, people love bocce ball and boules. With my limited knowledge, I think I can safely say that pétanque is similar to both but played with smaller metal balls. I think my love of this set stems from the delightful times I've spent in Paris watching the men ( and a few women) play pétanque in the gardens.

" Madame, la boule."

Those of you that have followed this blog for quite a while will remember my delightful adventures with the pétanque players at Luxembourg Gardens, the summer of 2009.  The foursome that befriended me couldn't have been more entertaining and accommodating.  They took such pains to show me how the game was played and all about the scoring ( and the conversations regarding the scoring!). At one point I was instructed to go down to another court for a translation.  A wonderful Paris memory.  Today, the all important boule!

Boules

This was my favorite find at the Grande Brocante - Quartier Saint Blaise last month in the 20eme. Since I have often enjoyed photographing the pétanque players at Luxembourg and the Palais Royal gardens, I especially loved seeing this vintage set in its nicely worn case.

Merci Claudine pour cette vidéo!!