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Viking Isle of Lewis Chess set is an exact replica of an authentic
900-year-old Viking chess set. These true-size pieces are cast
directly from the original Lewis chessmen, the most famous
chess pieces in history. In every way possible, this quality replica is
designed to maintain the integrity of the hand-carved walrus-tusk originals.
Made in Europe from a crushed-stone and polyester-resin compound, these
chess pieces look and feel like the ancient set. The pieces measure 3.5”
and the pawns are 1.5” in height. Whether using the pieces to play Chess,
or to simply display in your home or office, they will be cherished by your
family for generations!
These chessmen are true-size reproductions of the 12th-century originals
found by a farmer in 1831 on the Isle of Lewis, in the Hebrides, northwest
of Scotland. The original Lewis pieces, which now reside in the British
Museum, are regarded by experts as the most exquisite collection of
ancient chessmen in existence.
The possible fate of an ancient Norwegian merchant ship has brought us
new insight into the European Middle Ages. The Lewis chessmen were probably
made between the years 1100-1130 AD. During that time the Outer Hebrides
were part of the Norwegian Kingdom. It is therefore, believed that the
chessmen are of Norwegian origin. A chess piece depicting a queen, nearly
identical to the Lewis pieces, has been found in Trondheim, the Medieval
capital of Norway. The ornaments on the back of some of the figures relate
to carvings in the Nidaros Cathedral, the center of Norway's church in
Trondheim. The style was typical of this region in the Middle Ages. There
were a lot of walrus teeth in the city at that time, since taxes were often
paid for in goods such as these. Historians believe that the chess pieces
were carved in one of the workshops connected to the Cathedral.
In addition to the chess pieces, the set also includes a matching
Medieval style chess board, a 64 page historical book from the British
Museum, a designer gift box and a historical insert.
Because the Lewis chessmen are the most famous pieces in history, you
will occasionally find competitor versions. This version of this set
is the only set in North America being sold that is cast directly from the
12th-century originals. Other chess sets don't include additional value
added accessories such as a chess board, which makes our set playable right
out of the box, and the historical book. Our version of the Lewis chessmen,
complete with accessories, is the premier version of the set, and makes a
wonderful gift item. Don’t miss your chance to own a museum-quality
replica of an ancient Viking chess set, designed for serious collectors and
devoted chess players alike. Why settle for cheap imitations? Own a chess
set you’ll be proud to use and display!
Click on the images below for more details.
   
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