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White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
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White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
5924063 White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory) by Indian School, (19th century); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa.
Carved ivory, made by an Indian artist, probably in Berhampur, from a chess set representing the Bengal Army and an Indian rulers forces, 1820 circa.
This chess piece takes the form of a Bengal sepoy standing at attention upon a circular plinth; the sepoy wears a shako with a plume, a double breasted coatee.
Known as A John CompanyA sets, finely-crafted chess sets of East India Company soldiers and Indian troops were popular with the British. Most pieces are carved from single sections of ivory.
This set was probably made in Berhampur, which was established as a centre of ivory carving during the 1700s. It was ideally situated for the European market because travellers and traders passed through on their way to and from Calcutta (Kolkata) and central and southern India. It was also a garrison town, so would have had a regularly-changing population of British officers. Exquisite chess sets like this continued to be made into the twentieth century.); eNational Army Museum; Indian, out of copyright
Media ID 22762684
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable chess piece from India, dating back to around 1820. Crafted from ivory by an Indian artist, most likely in Berhampur, this exquisite piece is part of a larger chess set representing the Bengal Army and Indian rulers' forces. The featured chess piece takes the form of a Bengal sepoy standing proudly at attention on a circular plinth. Adorned with a shako hat embellished with a plume and dressed in a double-breasted coatee, the intricate details bring this miniature soldier to life. Known as "A John Company" sets, these finely-crafted chess sets depicting East India Company soldiers and Indian troops were highly sought after by British enthusiasts. Each piece was meticulously carved from single sections of ivory, showcasing the incredible skill of the artisans involved. Berhampur emerged as a prominent center for ivory carving during the 18th century due to its strategic location along trade routes between Calcutta (Kolkata) and central/southern India. Additionally, being a garrison town meant it had frequent interactions with British officers who appreciated such masterpieces. This particular set found its way into London's National Army Museum where it continues to captivate visitors with its beauty and historical significance. A testament to timeless craftsmanship, similar breathtaking chess sets were produced well into the 20th century.
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