KHOLMOGORY, 19TH CENTURY

Details

A RUSSIAN CARVED WALRUS IVORY FIGURAL CHESS SET
KHOLMOGORY, 19TH CENTURY
The one side representing Russians, the opposing side stained and representing the Turks
The king -- 3¾ in. (9.5 cm.) high; the pawn -- 2 3/8 in. (6 cm.) high

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country. No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium, which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis. This lot will be removed to an off-site warehouse at the close of business on the day of sale - 2 weeks free storage

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Lot Essay

Traditionally these type of chess men are associated with the small town of Kholmogory, off the Arctic sea, that specialised in veneering and carving of walrus and mammoth ivory ornamental wares. Some of the key pieces bare traits unique to the history and culture of Russia, for example, the queen is represented as a counsellor to the enthroned king, the bishops modelled as elephants and the rooks as ships. These figures show a resemblance to earlier Indian and Eastern sets. The Russian side are typically depicted as Roman centurions, also modelled on Catherine the Great's personal Prerobazhensky guard, who wore a similar uniform.

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