Lewis Chessmen: Small Chess and Draughts 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 and early 13 century. They were found 700 years later on the Isle of Lewis. 93 pieces from different games were found, including four different chess sets.

The original chesspieces 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.

The two sets of draughts counters are also replicas of original gaming pieces. The crowned mermaid counter is from late 15th century and was found in Iona Abbey. The piece with interlaced ornamental carving is from early 16th century and was found on the island of Rhum.

This full set of replica Lewis Chessmen pieces and Draughts is cast from laser scans of the original artifacts. The chess pieces in this set are smaller compared to the quite large originals. The draughts pieces are original size. They are handmade in the UK, and presented in a gift box. The box includes also a printed cotton gaming board (31 x 31 cm).

• Full set of detailed replica Lewis Chessmen pieces and a full set of replica Draughts counters from late 15th to early 16th century
• Each gamepiece has been finely sculpted in poly-resin
• The set includes a printed cotton gaming board (31 x 31 cm)
• The largest playing piece, the King, stands 40 mm tall
• Box dimensions: 36 cm x 30 cm x 4.5 cm
• Excellent for collectors of historical memorabilia, for decoration and as a gift