Game of chess

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Game of chess

Otto IV, margrave of Brandenburg, depicted playing chess with his wife Hedwig von Holstein. Date: 14th century

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 20159905

© Bubblepunk

Brandenburg Chess Fifteenth Hedwig Holstein Otto Player 14th Games

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This 14th-century image from the annals of European history depicts Otto IV, Margrave of Brandenburg, deeply engrossed in a game of chess with his wife, Hedwig von Holstein. The couple's regal presence is evident in their elegant attire and the opulence of their surroundings, which speaks to their noble status. Chess, an intellectual and strategic pastime, was a popular pursuit among the European aristocracy during the Middle Ages. Otto IV, also known as Otto the Generous, was a prolific poet and a key figure in the House of Ascania. He ruled Brandenburg from 1320 until his death in 1347. Hedwig von Holstein, the daughter of Count Adolf VII of Holstein, was a woman of great beauty and intelligence. Their marriage, which took place in 1324, was a strategic alliance aimed at strengthening the political ties between their respective families. The game of chess, with its intricate rules and complex strategies, served as a metaphor for the intricacies of medieval courtly life. The couple's shared enjoyment of the game underscores their mutual respect and admiration for one another. The chessboard, with its alternating checkered pattern, provides a striking visual contrast against the richly textured fabric of their clothing, adding to the overall visual appeal of the image. This evocative print offers a glimpse into the past, transporting us to a time when the aristocracy found joy and intellectual stimulation in the simple pleasures of a game of chess. The image also serves as a reminder of the important role that women played in medieval society, both as political pawns and as influential figures in their own right.

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