Circa 1840 Pre-Staunton Calvert Library Size Chessmen in Genuine Ebony & Antiqued Boxwood - 3.3 Inch King

A bit of History

A reproduction of "An English turned Ivory Chess Set" in 3.3 inch king, this library size St. John 18th Century Pre-Staunton Calvert Chess Set is an exquisite representation of early English chess craftsmanship, originating in the 1840s. This design is attributed to the renowned London-based chess maker John Calvert, who produced some of the finest chess sets of the pre-Staunton era. His work epitomized the Georgian style, blending artistry and functionality to appeal to a burgeoning chess culture in England.

Calvert's chess sets were celebrated for their refined design and attention to detail. The St. John set features elaborately turned pieces, with the kings and queens distinguished by intricate crown-like motifs. The knights, often the most challenging pieces to craft, showcase highly stylized horse heads, reflecting the artistic preferences of the period. The king is with urn-shaped finials, the queen with ball-knop finials, bishops with split mitres and the rook has turrets catering to the aristocracy and affluent chess enthusiasts.

Unlike the standardized Staunton sets introduced in 1849, Calvert's designs prioritized ornate beauty over uniformity, making them less practical for competitive play but highly valued as decorative pieces and collector’s items. The St. John set became emblematic of the transitional phase in chess set evolution, bridging medieval extravagance with modern minimalism.

Today, the St. John 18th Century Chess Set is celebrated for its historical significance and aesthetic charm. Collectors and restorers admire its intricate craftsmanship and its role in shaping the tradition of English chess set design. It represents a time when chess was as much an artistic pursuit as a strategic one, a reflection of the cultural and intellectual aspirations of 18th-century England.

Reference: South Kensington, The Ettore Chiesa Collections of Chess Sets, Published 20 September 2006, Page 94

Box Content: 34 chessmen (including 2 extra queens)

Woods Used: Genuine Ebony Wood & Antiqued Boxwood

Dimensions