Help Identifying Antique Chess Set

Sort:
DexDaCat

Hello!

 

I inherited this set of chess pieces from my late great-grandfather. We aren't sure of their origin and if they came from a set or if he perhaps made them himself as he was a good woodworker. He loved all sorts of  table and board games of all types including chess. My memory is fuzzy on where I learned the bare basics of chess and perhaps it's all phantom memory but I believe he may have taught me.

 

Either way, after he passed when I was a child we wound up with these pieces including a wooden box of similar style (not in my possession or pictured) along with a board that my father told me he acquired elsewhere. (board in picture came from a different set, gift from my friend). They're not in tremendous condition but from their presumed age and use, they've held up well. Solid wood with green felt bottom. Not sure what kind of wood though.

 

If anyone could give me any leads on their origin I'd be truly grateful! I love these pieces and especially their sentimental value not to mention they're a joy to play with.









Powderdigit
Sorry - I am not a collector nor historian but… I really like these pieces - full of character! Wonderful - thanks for posting and I hope you get your answer. 👍
brasileirosim

I don't think they are especially old and they are definitely not of a good quality. They seem like those sets people purchase when on vacation in other countries. However, it is important that they have a value for you, as it was from your grandfather.

greghunt

Its a nice set.  The bishops might be wearing Boyar's hats, suggesting Russia, but the rather large cross on the king is not a very Russian idea and the queen's headdress/crown is probably just exaggerated in the same way that the King's cross is (an analogue to the headdress could get you to central asia, but the collar is more west than east, and thats starting to take us no-where).  

M7G3y

This modern Spanish set has similarities. Faces and net decoration: https://www.mora-play.com/mora/producto/piezas-decorativas-royal/

DexDaCat
M7G3y wrote:

This modern Spanish set has similarities. Faces and net decoration: https://www.mora-play.com/mora/producto/piezas-decorativas-royal/

Holy moly these pieces are gorgeous and you're right. Their resemblance is quite strong! Quite a lead, thank you!