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Lot Essay
Bertram Jones (1885-1969) was a highly skilled ivory turner, who established his own workshop in 1919. Despite the pressures of this traditional trade diminishing around him, he adapted and later worked for the chess dealer, Mackett-Beeson, during the 1950's. The design of these 'Turkish' style pieces was inspired by the rose-water sprinklers, catalogued by Hans and Sigfried Wichman in Chess, published 1964 as 18th century pieces. The rounded and stepped bases on this set, acanthus leafy detail and beading are notable traits of Bertram's work. A closely related set is illustrated in A.E.J. Mackett-Beeson, CHESSMEN, Weidenfeld and Nicolson Ltd, 1967, fig. 73, page 61, described as Turkish and early 19th century, but now believed to be by Bertram Jones.
For further discussion see Alan Dewey, Bertram Jones 1885-1969; Journeyman Ivory Turner and Maker of Fine Chess Sets, and Bill Jones, Notes from the Turning Shop, and Further Notes from The Turning Shop, Woodturning Magazine issues 23-42, 1996 and 1997.
For further discussion see Alan Dewey, Bertram Jones 1885-1969; Journeyman Ivory Turner and Maker of Fine Chess Sets, and Bill Jones, Notes from the Turning Shop, and Further Notes from The Turning Shop, Woodturning Magazine issues 23-42, 1996 and 1997.