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White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
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White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
5924069 White pawn, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory) by Dobson, William (1611-46) (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 22323630
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a white pawn chess piece from India, dating back to around 1820. Crafted from exquisite ivory by an Indian artist, most likely in Berhampur, this piece is part of a larger chess set representing the Bengal Army and Indian rulers' forces. The intricate details of this particular chess piece are truly remarkable. Standing at attention on a circular plinth, the pawn takes the form of a Bengal sepoy adorned with a shako featuring a plume and wearing a double-breasted coatee. These sets, known as "A John Company" sets, were highly sought after by the British during that time. Carved from single sections of ivory, these finely-crafted chess sets became immensely popular among European travelers and traders passing through Berhampur on their way to Calcutta (Kolkata) and other parts of central and southern India. The town's status as both an important trading hub and garrison town ensured its steady supply of British officers who appreciated such exquisite pieces. It is fascinating to note that even into the twentieth century, skilled artisans continued to create these stunning chess sets. This particular photograph captures not only the beauty but also the historical significance behind this unique work of art. Preserved in London's National Army Museum, it serves as a testament to the rich cultural exchange between India and Britain during colonial times.
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