Chess set - Wood

Large Hand-Carved Zimbabwean Animal Chess Set – 32 Unique Wooden Pieces 70 cm diameter

Exceptional hand-carved Zimbabwean chess set, purchased in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

This impressive chess set consists of a large, beautifully decorated wooden chessboard accompanied by 32 individually hand-carved animal chess pieces. The pieces depict a variety of African animals, including elephants, rhinoceroses, lions and other characteristic wildlife figures. Each piece has its own shape, details and character, reflecting the handmade nature of the set.

The chessboard itself is particularly decorative. It features a combination of contrasting natural wood squares surrounded by a wide, richly carved dark wooden border decorated with African wildlife and botanical motifs. The board is made in two sections and can be folded/closed for easier storage.

The set was purchased directly from a local seller in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The exact maker and date of manufacture are unknown, but the set has a distinctive Zimbabwean/African folk-art character and was acquired locally.

The combination of the large decorative board and the individually carved animal pieces makes this not only a functional chess set, but also an impressive decorative and collectible piece of African craftsmanship.

Condition:
Good vintage/pre-owned condition with visible signs of age and use. The wooden pieces and board show natural variations in colour, minor scratches and imperfections consistent with handmade craftsmanship and previous use. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.