Naqala, an Arabic word meaning 'to move,' lends itself to a world-wide family of games known collectively as Mancala. There are vast variations in the basic game's name, play and complexity, however Mancala is essentially a counting game.
One aspect of Mancala's wide appeal is the fact that it can be played with whatever materials happen to be around. Across Asia, and Africa (where it probably originated), Mancala is played in hollows scooped out of the earth with seeds, pebbles or shells for counters. Some boards are even moulded from animal dung!
In contrast to these modest, lowly materials, Mancala boards are found in wood, metal, pottery, clay and stone.
Explore the gallery of Mancala boards to find out more about the game and its massive following throughout history and across the globe.
Early 20th century
In China Mancala is usually played on the ground with holes scooped out of the soil to form a board. This luxurious folding board with its lacquered finish and local decoration is unusual. It reminds us that Mancala has been played in both lowly and elevated circumstances.
