Description
Piero Benzoni Medieval Chessmen in Gilded Bronze Chess.
Offered here is a set of the magnificent Piero Benzoni Medieval Chessmen in the Benzoni Carolingian Series Style. The chess pieces are solid 24k gold-plated and silver-plated bronze. The King stands an impressive 4-3/8” tall with a 1-3/4” base span. These elegant and decorative chess pieces are adorned with gold, bronze or silver-plated details. The tallest piece is 4.5″ high and the shortest is 3.25″ tall. The chessmen are Impressed with the ‘Piero Benzoni’ signature.
This exemplary medieval-themed ensemble, from one of Benzoni’s Crusades-inspired design (circa 1980s–2000s). The 32 hand-sculpted solid bronze pieces with a bronze substrate electroplated in 24k gold for one army and sterling silver (or rhodium-enhanced silver) for the opposing side, achieving an aesthetic that highlights intricate detailing. The 4-3/8″ King exemplifies Renaissance and medieval iconography, with regal monarchs in period regalia, queens in flowing gowns with accessories like fans, bishops bearing heraldic shields, dynamic knights astride rearing steeds with lances, Gothic-style tower rooks, and armored pawns as foot soldiers. Each figure stands atop ornate, rococo-influenced bases with filigree and sculptural elements, ensuring stability and visual harmony.
Included is a cast bronze gold-gilded framed chessboard with 2-1/2″ mahogany and Maple inlaid squares.
The armies represented are stylized opposing medieval/Renaissance forces in the Carolingian series theme: Charlemagne-era or Crusades-inspired. Both armies use similar European-style figures for chess functionality and artistic impact. It’s not a literal historical recreation but a decorative homage to medieval battles.
All sets from the house of Piero Benzoni are made with amazing attention to detail using the “lost wax” technique. The Kings and Knights are hallmarked with the script “Piero Benzoni” maker’s mark. One army has gold bodies with silver accents while the other has silver bodies with gold accents. The level of detail is incredible! These luxury chess sets are highly sought for their iconic themes and masterful designs.
About the Sculptor
Piero Benzoni was born near Melegnano, a small town in Lombardy, south of Milan. At the age of 14, he began his apprenticeship in silversmith workshops. In 1966, he founded his own company in Melegnano. In 1976, Benzoni started a new line he called “Art Bronzes” making beautiful models of chess sets in antique costumes, representing different historical periods.
Piero Benzoni chess sets have a long history. The original company, founded by Piero Benzoni, was established in 1966. Over the decades, chess sets produced by Benzoni can be found in the homes of some of the World’s most recognized names. Piero Benzoni has now retired from bronze working, making his works of are desirable collectibles.
