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Chess Set

12th century
Not on view
This nearly complete chess set is one of the earliest extant examples in the world. The pieces are abstract forms: the shah (king) is represented as a throne; the vizier (the equivalent of the queen) is a smaller throne; the elephant (bishop) has two tusklike protrusions; the horse (knight) has a triangular knob representing its head; the chariot (rook) is rectangular with a wedge at the top; and the pawns are faceted hemispheres with knobs.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Chess Set
  • Date: 12th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Iran, Nishapur
  • Medium: Stonepaste; molded and glazed
  • Dimensions: Largest piece (King):
    H. 2 in. (5.1 cm)
    Diam. 2 1/8 in. (5.4 cm)
    Small piece (Pawn):
    H. 1 5/16 in. (3.3 cm)
    Diam. 1 1/8 in. (2.9 cm)
  • Classification: games or toys
  • Credit Line: Pfeiffer Fund, 1971
  • Object Number: 1971.193a–ff
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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Cover Image for 6605. Chess set

6605. Chess set

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