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White bishop, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
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White bishop, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
5924020 White bishop, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory) by Josquin, Alexandre (fl.1842-70); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: White bishop, 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 an Asian rhinoceros shaped with one horn.
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; French, out of copyright
Media ID 22587942
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable chess piece known as the White bishop, hailing from India 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 an Indian ruler's forces. What makes this particular chess piece truly unique is its intricate design resembling an Asian rhinoceros with a single horn. These finely-crafted sets, referred to as "A John Company" sets, were highly sought after by the British during that time. Each piece was meticulously carved from a single section of ivory. Berhampur served as an ideal hub for ivory carving due to its strategic location along trade routes between Calcutta (Kolkata) and central and southern India. Additionally, being a garrison town meant it had a constant influx of British officers who appreciated such masterpieces. The craftsmanship displayed in this chess set continued well into the twentieth century, reflecting the enduring popularity of these works of art. This stunning photograph not only captures the beauty and intricacy of this specific White bishop but also provides us with insight into the historical significance and cultural exchange between India and Britain during that era.
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