Hand carved vintage ivory chess set

Sort:
AliciaB1

Hi all, was just wondering if someone can confirm this is indeed a vintage hand carved ivory chess set that I have inherited and what value does this have. Thanks



madmacsback

Alicia, it is difficult to tell from the few pictures you have posted. Closeups of several more pictures, and pictures of the bottom of the pieces would help. But from what you HAVE posted, the cheeks of the King shown seem to have the striations one would expect from ivory, and the pieces and board certainly are good examples of a twentieth century Chinese export ivory chess set. The major pieces are quite nicely carved, but the pawns are not the best I’ve seen. IT’s almost like two different sets. Also, these sets were and are also made from resin or bone, which is why I can’t be definitive about whether or not they are ivory until you post more pictures.

As for value, I would not offer a price. It’s worth what someone will pay you for it. Since you are in South Africa, please check your national and local laws regarding the possession and sale of ivory.

CavanPawn

You should find out if that set can legally be owned or shipped anywhere other than South Africa. The pieces are beautiful. Ivory is not allowed to be shipped to certain places. A value on something that can't be sold is difficult to determine.