A handsome and very characterful late Victorian English Staunton-pattern chess set, dating from approximately 1880–1900, accompanied by a large period folding chessboard and dovetailed wooden storage box.

The complete set comprises 32 traditionally turned and carved chessmen, one side in beautifully patinated natural boxwood and the opposing side in ebony.

The King stands 7.8 cm (approximately 3⅛ inches) high, giving this an attractive smaller or library-sized proportion while remaining substantial enough for comfortable play.

The pieces are particularly pleasing examples of the classic Staunton design. The knights are individually carved with expressive horse heads, incised manes, defined eyes and projecting muzzles. The bishops have traditional mitre cuts, while the queens have attractive castellated coronets and the rooks are crisply turned with castellated tops.

The Kings retain their distinctive cross-form finials.

No manufacturer's marks have been found and the set is therefore offered simply as a good-quality English Staunton set, rather than being attributed to Jaques, Ayres or another particular manufacturer.

Accompanying the chessmen is a large folding chessboard measuring approximately 45 × 46 cm, with 4.5 cm squares in alternating rich red and cream leather with gilt edging. The playing field is surrounded by a wide mottled decorative border and the board folds centrally for storage.

The board displays considerable age and use, including wear, marks, staining and losses around the borders and central fold. These have deliberately been left untouched and contribute greatly to its authentic antique appearance. The board has separated along its central fold during its long working life and has been rejoined at the centre.

Also included is the old dovetailed wooden storage box, which provides an attractive and practical home for the chessmen.

Together, the pieces, board and box make a wonderfully evocative Victorian chess ensemble. Unlike a modern reproduction, the chessmen have developed the colour, polish and individual character that comes from well over a century of handling and play.

Details:  English Staunton pattern; approximately c.1880–1900; 32 chessmen; King 7.8 cm / approximately 3⅛ inches high; natural boxwood and ebony hardwood; folding board approximately 45 × 46 cm; individual squares approximately 4.5 cm; red and cream playing surface with mottled decorative border; period dovetailed storage box.

Condition: The set is offered in antique condition with expected surface wear, minor marks and evidence of use. The board has considerable age-related wear, particularly to its edges, borders and central fold. The box also shows knocks, scratches and wear to its painted finish.  The tops of the two black Knights have been painted. Ebony is relatively brittle, and the Knight is by far the most complicated carved piece.  Antique ebony knights commonly became chipped, faded or discoloured, which most likely explains the painting.

Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

A very attractive set for a collector of antique chessmen, Victorian games or traditional English Staunton chess sets, and equally appealing as a usable and highly decorative period chess ensemble.

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