I think you're on the right track but if you saw this cloth in person you'd see that the "chips" are mounted on the surface of the cloth. It's not a smooth surface so cards and chips would keep getting caught on the edges of the artwork. I think it would get in the way of actually playing cards, which makes me wonder if it's more of a promotional item that actually intended for play. But, of course, back in those days the novelty of having the cloth perhaps outweighted the nuisance factor.

One person saw it on Ebay and said she thought it was a cover for an umbrella, so at least we have plenty of opinions! haha

I'm putting up a couple dozens ivories tonight.

Good to hear from you, Allan and Travis!

Bryan