The stems and bases of chess pieces all have layers of intricately decorated lobes and ripples on their surfaces - probably made using an ornamental lathe.
The finish is similar to the celebrated artistic work of tuners in the 16th and 17th Century . Please see period cup references below.
The design of the stems of the kings, queens, bishops and rooks are most unusual having serrated oval, square, urn form and vertical lines throughout which adds harmony to the set.
All the white side pieces have traces of burgundy/crimson pigmentation indicating that originally these pieces were dyed.
The chess pieces are stored in fitted drawers on the side of a mahogany veneered chessboard with brass handles and working locks on each drawer.
The storage drawers have beds that were hand carved from wood sections covered in a pink suede like material to provide chessmen shaped inserts.
A most interesting set, requiring more research on its origins; we would appreciate any relevant information or thoughts.
Some context: In the 16th century , as the game of chess entered the modern era, Spaniards and Italians fought over supremacy.
Illustration of chess pieces from early chess book shows similar form bishop and decorated bases.
The first international tournament takes place at the court of Philip II of Spain in 1574 and sees the victory of the Italians over the Spanish team, where Ruy Lopez is located.
Lopez as an expert and author of a respected works, published for the first time in 1561 under the title Libro de la invencion liberal, y arte del juego del Axedrez.
The audience of the work is such that a translation into Italian was published in 1584.
This Italian edition shows the chessboard and six chess piece figures.
An adaptation in French, very reduced, will appear in 1609 under the title 'The game of chess', with its scientific and practical invention.
Reference from 'New Games and Renewed Games' from 2009 French Exhibition
This simpler set was sold at auction many years ago, dated to the 17th century,
please note similarities in shape and form of the rook, bishop, king and queen.
Above shows the costume style from the 16th century. Puffed and ribbed Spanish breeches (pumpkin pants) and round pleated gown.
May point to design cues used for the king and queens bodies.
Cameo showing early form court hat and to the right 16th and 17th century elaborate turned standing cups
Date of box TBD.
