Chess Set
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
- 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
Audio
6605. Chess set
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