Chessmen (32)
These chessmen with baluster stems and finials denoting the rank of the piece are based on European models; the work, however, is unmistakably Oriental. The kings and queens are indicated by crowns, and the bishops by miters; the knights are horse heads, and the rooks have the form of crenelated towers with large flags at the top. The pawns are slim and elegant. The baluster stands all feature a carved, pierced, and undercut knop, which in the rook forms the mass of the tower. The bases are typical of many Chinese sets.
Artwork Details
- Title: Chessmen (32)
- Date: 19th century
- Culture: Chinese
- Medium: Ivory
- Dimensions: Height (each king): 3 3/8 in. (8.6 cm);
Height (each pawn): 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm) - Classification: Chess Sets
- Credit Line: Gift of Gustavus A. Pfeiffer, 1948
- Object Number: 48.174.164a–p, aa–pp
- Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
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19th century
late 19th century
19th century
19th century
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