INTERNATIONAL CHESS SETS

Carved and Painted Gilded Wood Chess Set portraying King Arthur and the Knight of the Round Table Italy 20th century.

Carved and Painted Gilded Wood Chess Set portraying King Arthur and the Knight of the Round Table, Italy 20th century. Photography: Mary Harrsch.

A 1957 exhibit curated by the museum’s director Clifford Dolph led to the creation of this permanent exhibit of chess sets. Today there are about 100 sets of these sculptures in miniature, representing the many countries, cultures and periods in which chess has been played.

Located in the museum Lower Level – view museum map

Sandalwood and Ivory Chess Set India 19th century C.E

Sandalwood and Ivory Chess Set, India 19th century C.E.
Photography: Mary Harrsch

Audio Tour:
International Chess Sets