Vintage Aramith Billiard Ball Packaging
Graphic Design / Commercial Art - Printed Cardboard Packaging • Commissioned industrial/graphic designer for Saluc S.A. (Aramith brand)
Style & Movement
Mid-to-Late Century Commercial Modernism
Medium & Technique
Lithographic printing on corrugated or card-stock cardboard with a protective gloss coating
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (likely 1970s-1990s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10 x 10 x 2.5 inches (standard billiard set box size), square landscape format
Subject Description
The graphic features monochromatic circles representing billiard balls, containing the lettering 'ARAMITH BALLS' intertwined with photorealistic depictions of specific numbered billiard balls (5, 15, 9, 3, 10, 4, 11). The background is a hunter green mimicking billiard cloth.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair; visible abrasions and structural wear along the edges and corners
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD (dependent on the completeness and condition of the balls inside)
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Commercial product manufactured in Belgium by Saluc S.A.; likely purchased at a sporting goods or billiards specialty retailer
Art Historical Significance
Represents the industrial dominance of the Saluc company, which produces approximately 80% of the world's billiard balls. It is a classic example of functional commercial packaging design in the sports industry.
Notable Features
Includes the 'Made in Belgium' stamp; features the classic Aramith branding and color palette associated with professional pool tournaments
Condition Issues
Scuffing on the top surface, corner crushing, edge whitening (loss of ink due to friction), and possible moisture related warping found on the perimeter
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a temperature-controlled, dry environment to prevent cardboard acidification or mold; store flat and avoid stacking heavy weight on the box