Chess set
05
days
16
hours
07
minutes
52
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Elena Napoleone
Holds a bachelor's degree in history of art and architecture, with 12 years of experience in decorative arts.
Estimate € 100 - € 140
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A complete handmade soapstone chess set with a coordinated board, dating to approximately 1940–1950 and originating from Kenya, in excellent condition with some pieces repaired, featuring stylised tribal African designs.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Splendid and characteristic complete chess set with board, entirely handmade and finished in soapstone. This unique piece stands out for its strong decorative impact and the charm of ethnic craftsmanship, ideal for both collectors and as a refined furnishing accessory.
Material: High-quality natural soapstone, known for its smooth texture and unique veining. The two sides play on the warm shades of antique pink/terracotta and the delicate tones of ivory white/light gray.
Design & Pieces: Every single piece is hand-carved in a stylized style that recalls African tribal art. The creative details of the major figures (King and Queen with traditional headgear) and the horses, finely shaped in animal form, stand out.
Chessboard: Solid stone slab coordinated with incised and polished squares, perfectly reflecting the bi-chromatic tones of the two sides.
State of conservation: The item presents in excellent overall aesthetic condition. As this is a fully artisanal work, small irregularities of the stone or color nuances should not be considered defects, but a testament to the authenticity and uniqueness of the artifact. N.B., some pieces have been repaired; the photos are an integral part of this lot.
Splendid and characteristic complete chess set with board, entirely handmade and finished in soapstone. This unique piece stands out for its strong decorative impact and the charm of ethnic craftsmanship, ideal for both collectors and as a refined furnishing accessory.
Material: High-quality natural soapstone, known for its smooth texture and unique veining. The two sides play on the warm shades of antique pink/terracotta and the delicate tones of ivory white/light gray.
Design & Pieces: Every single piece is hand-carved in a stylized style that recalls African tribal art. The creative details of the major figures (King and Queen with traditional headgear) and the horses, finely shaped in animal form, stand out.
Chessboard: Solid stone slab coordinated with incised and polished squares, perfectly reflecting the bi-chromatic tones of the two sides.
State of conservation: The item presents in excellent overall aesthetic condition. As this is a fully artisanal work, small irregularities of the stone or color nuances should not be considered defects, but a testament to the authenticity and uniqueness of the artifact. N.B., some pieces have been repaired; the photos are an integral part of this lot.
Details
Era
1900-2000
Country of origin
Kenya
Condition
Mint
Estimated period
1940-1950
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