Chessmen (32)

Indian

Not on view

Although it is figural, this set was made for playing. The kings kneel and hold scepters; the queens are represented by generals although they are called viziers or counselors, and they bear swords. The elephant, instead of being in his original position (next to the king), has, as is common in Indian chess, displaced the rook at the corner of the board. In his own place is a camel. The knight is represented by a horse head. The pawns are small standing men, unarmed, wearing kiltlike skirts.

Chessmen (32), Ivory, Indian

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