Introduction
Chess is a timeless strategic game that has been played for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to ancient India. Over time, the game spread throughout the world, evolving and adapting to different cultures and regions. One such adaptation is the Isle of Lewis Chess Set, which is known for its unique and intricately carved pieces. In this article, we will explore the history of the Isle of Lewis Chess Sets and its significance in the world of chess.
Early History
The Isle of Lewis Chess Set is believed to have been created in the 12th century, during the Viking Age. It is said that a merchant ship traveling from Norway to Ireland was caught in a storm and ended up stranded on the Isle of Lewis, a small island off the coast of Scotland. The crew members, who were avid chess players, carved the chess pieces from walrus ivory found on the island, using their ship-building tools.
The chess set is believed to have been left behind by the sailors and discovered by a local farmer in the early 1800s. The farmer discovered the pieces when his cattle dug them up while grazing on the land. The farmer sold the chess set to a local collector named John Carse, who later sold it to the British Museum in London.
Design and Materials
The Isle of Lewis Chess Set consists of 78 pieces, including 8 king pieces, 8 queen pieces, 16 bishop pieces, 8 knight pieces, 12 rook pieces, and 28 pawn pieces. The pieces are intricately carved and highly detailed, with some pieces even having carved rings on their fingers. The pieces are also known for their unique facial expressions, with some appearing ferocious and others amused.
The pieces were carved from walrus ivory, which was a common material used for decorative objects during the Viking Age. Archaeological evidence suggests that the walrus ivory used for the chess pieces was imported from Greenland or Iceland, indicating the extensive trading networks of the Vikings.
Significance in the World of Chess
The Isle of Lewis Chess Set is not only famous for its unique design and history but also for its significance in the world of chess. The intricate and realistic designs of the pieces make them highly coveted by collectors and chess enthusiasts alike. The chess set is also known for being one of the oldest surviving chess sets in the world, making it a valuable piece of history.
The chess set has also had a significant impact on modern chess sets. Many modern adaptations of the Isle of Lewis Chess Set can be found, with some sets being made from materials such as pewter or marble instead of ivory. The design of the pieces has also influenced other chess sets, with some sets featuring the distinctive ringed fingers or similar facial expressions.
Controversies
The Isle of Lewis Chess Set has not been without controversies. In the late 1900s, there were debates over the ownership of the chess set between the British Museum and Scotland, as the chess set was discovered on Scottish land. In 1993, the Scottish Parliament passed a law declaring the chess set as a “Scottish national treasure,” but the British Museum refused to return the pieces.
Furthermore, there have been concerns over the authenticity of the chess set. Some experts believe that the pieces were not made during the Viking Age, as they show signs of later cultural influences. There have also been accusations that the pieces are modern forgeries, but there is still ongoing research and debate to prove or disprove these claims.
Conclusion
The Isle of Lewis Chess Set continues to captivate and intrigue people with its rich history and unique design. Its journey from the Viking Age to the modern world has made it a valuable piece of history and an important artifact in the world of chess.
