Description
John Calvert Old English Pattern Chessmen.
A large antique set of John Calvert Old English Pattern Chessmen, crafted from Natural and red-stained ivory. This style of chessmen was common in the Early Victorian Period and probably dates to the 1820s. The King stands 4-7/8″ tall with a 1-1-5/8″ diameter base. The chessmen are in excellent condition. These Old English Pattern Chessmen fall into the ubiquitous category often referred to as English Playing sets, which also included the Saint George pattern and the various Barleycorn designs. English Playing sets were ultimately supplanted by the Staunton chessmen which were introduced to the public in September of 1849.A compatible chessboard is not included in this offering but may be purchased elsewhere on this website.
These chessmen were produced in the workshop of John Calvert, located at 189 Fleet Street where he operated his business between 1790 until his death in 1825. He was awarded the title Master of the Worshipful Company of Turners in 1819. After his death, the business was continued by his widow, Dorothy, until around 1840. This Old English Playing set design is typical of the work of John Calvert. Similar sets of chessmen were made by Thomas and William Lund as well as George Merrifield and John Jaques, among others.
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