Chessmen (32)
The shapes of the pieces are identical on the two sides, except for the kings and queens. The workmanship of the rooks and pawns is especially fine. The bishops, as is customary in French sets, are "fous" (idiots or fools), wearing jester's cap and belled collar. The white king may be meant to represent King Ferdinand of Spain, which would support the theory that this set represents the reconquest of Spain from the Moors, and was intended for the Spanish market.
Artwork Details
- Title: Chessmen (32)
- Date: ca. 1870–80
- Culture: French, Dieppe
- Medium: Ivory, ebony
- Dimensions: Height (each king): 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm);
Height (each pawn): 2 in. (5.1 cm) - Classification: Chess Sets
- Credit Line: Gift of Gustavus A. Pfeiffer, 1948
- Object Number: 48.174.153a–p, aa–pp
- Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
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Multiple artists/makers
1867
French, Dieppe
19th century
Multiple artists/makers
1839
French, Dieppe
19th century
French, Dieppe
19th century
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