Lewis Chessmen: Large Chess Set

Description of the Product

The Lewis chesspieces are one of the best known objects in the National Museum of Scotland. The original pieces were carved from walrus ivory (from the tusks of walrus), except few that were made from whale teeth instead. It has been estimated that the chesspieces were created in the late 12th or early 13 century. They were found 700 years later on the Isle of Lewis on 1831. 93 pieces from different games were found, including four different chess sets.

The original pieces were probably made in Scandinavia, and they have possibly belonged to a person who lived on the Isle of Lewis. It has been suggested that the chess pieces would have had a red and white chequer-board underneath, but no board has been found.

This full set of replica Lewis Chessmen pieces is cast from laser scans of the original artifacts. Each piece is full scale replica of the original and has simulated ivory finish to accurately represent the walrus ivory original. They are handmade in the UK, and presented in a fine quality black and silver foil display box.

If you want to learn more about the Lewis Chessmen you can head over to the website of National Museum of Scotland to read more: https://www.nms.ac.uk/explore-our-collections/stories/scottish-history-and-archaeology/lewis-chess-pieces/

• Full set of detailed replica Lewis Chessmen pieces
• Originals from late 12th to early 13th century
• Each piece is full scale laser scanned replica of the original
• Each chess piece has been finely sculpted in polyresin
• Simulated ivory finish to accurately represent the walrus ivory original
• Protective felt base on each piece
• Set does not include a board
• The largest playing piece, the King, stands 9 cm tall
• Box dimensions: 46 cm x 33 cm x 5.5 cm