Chess Piece, Rook

11th–12th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 457

Chess came to Spain from Islamic lands and quickly gained popularity among people of all faiths. An elite secular activity, chess and its rules and strategies were likely first shared in princely courts, where high-ranking Muslims, Jews, and Christians regularly came into contact. Most medieval Islamic chess pieces were abstract, though figural pieces, such as this rukh (rook) in the form of two riders, do survive.

Artwork Details

Title: Chess Piece, Rook
Date: 11th–12th century
Geography: Attributed to Western Islamic Lands
Medium: Ivory; carved
Dimensions: H. 1 3/4 in. (4.5 cm)
W. 3/4 in. (1.9 cm)
Classification: Gaming pieces
Credit Line: Purchase, Rogers Fund and Mr. and Mrs. Jerome A. Straka Gift, 1974
Object Number: 1974.207
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

More Artwork

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In the same medium

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Chess Piece, Probably a Pawn, Ivory — Chess Piece, Probably a Pawn
11th–12th century

Chessmen (32), Ivory with polychrome lacquer and gilding, Indian — Chessmen (32)
Indian
late 18th–early 19th century

Morgan Casket, Ivory; carved — Morgan Casket
11th–12th century

Chess Piece, Pawn or Backgammon Piece, Rock-crystal — Chess Piece, Pawn or Backgammon Piece
10th–11th century or later

Chess Piece, King, Ivory; carved — Chess Piece, King
9th–12th century

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