Home > Animals > Mammals > Asian Elephant
Black king, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Black king, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory)
5924015 Black king, chess piece, India, 1820 circa (ivory) by Eichhorn, Albert (1811-1851); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Black king, 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 elephant with a mahout and two figures, a dignitary and an attendant, within a howdah.
Known as John Company 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.); © National Army Museum
Media ID 25160128
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
Calcutta Chess City Of Calcutta Elephant Inida Parlour Game
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Mammals
> Asian Elephant
> Animals
> Mammals
> Elephantidae
> Asian Elephant
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Pop art
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Pop art
> Arts
> Portraits
> Still life artwork
> Pop art
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Still life artwork
> Fine art
> Arts
> Street art graffiti
> Still life
> Pop art
> Asia
> India
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable chess piece known as the "Black king, chess piece, India, 1820 circa". 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. The chess piece takes the form of an elephant with a mahout (elephant rider) and two accompanying figures within a howdah (a carriage on top of the elephant). It is fascinating to observe the intricate details carved into this delicate ivory sculpture. Referred to as John Company sets, these finely-crafted chess sets were highly sought after by British soldiers and officers during their time in India. Made from single sections of ivory, they served as both entertainment and reminders of their experiences abroad. Berhampur was renowned for its mastery in ivory carving during the 1700s. Situated strategically along trade routes between Calcutta (Kolkata), central India, and southern India, it attracted European travelers and traders who appreciated such artistic treasures. Additionally, being a garrison town meant that British officers passing through would have been drawn to these exceptional pieces. It is worth noting that this particular set continued to be made well into the twentieth century due to its timeless beauty and historical significance. This stunning photograph allows us to appreciate not only the craftsmanship but also glimpse into a unique period where cultures intertwined through artistry and strategic gameplay.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
