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White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
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White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
5924070 White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory) by Hamilton, William (1751-1801) (after); 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; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23573316
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a delicate and intricately carved white pawn chess piece from India, dating back to around 1820. Crafted from ivory by a skilled Indian artist, this particular piece is believed to represent the Bengal Army and an Indian ruler's forces. Standing tall on a circular plinth, the pawn takes the form of a Bengal sepoy in full military attire. The attention to detail is remarkable, with the sepoy adorned in a shako hat embellished with a plume and dressed in a double-breasted coatee. These exquisite chess sets, known as "A John Company" sets, were highly sought after by British collectors during that era. The majority of pieces within these sets were meticulously carved from single sections of ivory. It is speculated that this specific set was created in Berhampur, which emerged as an important hub for ivory carving during the 18th century. Situated strategically along trade routes between Calcutta (Kolkata) and central and southern India, it attracted European travelers and traders who appreciated such finely-crafted works of art. This stunning example not only reflects the skillful craftsmanship prevalent at that time but also serves as a testament to the enduring popularity of these unique chess sets well into the 20th century. Preserved at London's National Army Museum, this photograph allows us to appreciate both its historical significance and artistic beauty for generations to come.
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