is similar in many respects to Battledore and Shuttlecock, the unique feature of the game being the implement used to launch the shuttlecock into the air. Resembling the stand used to support a coconut at a fair ground "coconut shy", it replaces the battledore with a cup which gradually tapers at it's base to form a handle.
In France the game is known as "Le Volant au Cornet" and dates from the early 19th century. Presumably it has been given this name because the shuttlecock launcher is shaped like an ice cream cornet. It is, and always has been, primarily a pastime for children.
Sophisticated versions incorporate a spring trigger launching mechanism. Originally made of wood or metal, today's counterpart is usually made of plastic.
From the few surviving contemporary illustrations and examples it is deduced that the object of the game is to toss or fire the shuttlecock into the air and catch it, either in the same cup or in that held by another player. Old advertisements also suggest that it can be fired at a target.
RULES: In the absence of written rules it is not known whether there was, or is, a system of scoring.
BALL ALTERNATIVE: As with most other shuttlecock games it can also be played with a ball. [This even applied to Badminton in its early days.]
MODERN VERSIONS: of the game take the form of a spring trigger operated plastic pistol with a cup shaped barrel firing ping pong style balls.