Description
15th Century Russian Abstract Chessmen Reproduction.
Offered here is a reproduction of a set of 15th Century Russian Abstract Chessmen excavated in Russia. It is one of the earliest known examples of a turned set of chessmen. The chess pieces bear a resemblance to the famous set designed by Italian turner and carver Baldassarre Embriachi and illustrated in The Art of Chess by Colleen Schafroth. The tallest piece stands 3-3/4” tall with a 1-1/4″ diameter base. These chess pieces are crafted from antiqued and natural Horn. The most striking of this set of Medieval style Chessmen are the Rooks, which appear to represent symbols of the mythical Phoenix. The bishops have a rather stout appearance, much like the Staunton Rook, but the single groove in the head represents a Biship’s miter. Rooks would have at least four crenellations.
The chessboard shown here is not included, but a suitable board is available elsewhere on this site. this set of chess pieces is a 20th century reproduction.
Many theories have been brought forward as to the origin of elaborate Rook design or what it represents. The particular Rook design has been associated with the Mythical Phoenix. Many different theories have been brought forward on the genesis of this design. This style of chessmen probably pre-dates the advent of the modern game of chess. It was referred to as the New Chess, as well as Chess of the Mad Queen. With the enhances powers of the Queen and Bishop, the game gained in popularity and the new game spread like wildfire throughout Europe. Within one generation the game which had endured centuries and had covered half of the known world was eclipsed in most of Europe by the new game. The old game became a relic, an anachronism remembered by monks and academics — those who clung to the old chess literature which was suddenly obsolete.
