Hey my Chess Friends! I appear in this new 4-hour film series on the Culture of Chess! INFO AND DOWNLOAD AT ideasroadshow.com/chess/ WATCH THE TRAILER AT th-cam.com/video/zLnOklDkTGQ/w-d-xo.html DVD FOR PURCHASE ON AMAZON www.amazon.com//dp/B0C13M1B84/
did you say you sell sets? I like the set that has the sheesham and boxwood pieces - but not clear on the name - you don't say what the name is, but you have that section titled "zagreb" but you also call the next set zagreb????
Loved this vid. I have always been fascinated with historic chess sets. My favorite one to play is the German Knight set. Loved the books you showed too!
My respect to you from a person that had and has come back to love chess again to take interest in the various styles of chess through history, well done I will continue to have a browse of you website!!!
I’m a subscriber now. Thank you for this I recently got my Columbia ll series 4 1/2” king Staunton made of African Paudouk and boxwood. I absolutely love it. It’s from Staunton Castle in India and my board is from India made of the same wood. It’s from The Chess Empire of India (the oldest chess making company in the world) it’s considered a luxury set and it’s gorgeous!
Thanks for the good comment! I haven't made any videos for almost a year -- but have many things to be videoed ... just waiting for me to get to them. In the meantime, please take a look at my long list of existing videos at ancientchess.com/page/videos.htm
Thanks for looking that up. Yes, I can see why it's called zebrawood or tigerwood (no relation to the golf pro). Very nice! I wonder if I can find any sets available made in that...
Thanks for your comment. Yes, the 'Zagreb' set shown in this video has been adapted with a cross on the king. The original design, favored by Fischer, has only a ball. This variation seems to have been the favorite of the Soviet Bloc countries, at least in the 50's, although it is also seen, for instance, in Murray's History of Chess (1913), page 773. The idea that the piece next to the king and queen is a 'bishop' seems to be English and Scandinavian. Most countries call it something else.
If I may correct you on one small matter- it's not Zagreb set (which you have shown in the video), but Dubrovnik set that was favourite of Bobby Fischer's. There were three 'official' versions of the set- and I hope you'll find it interesting to take a look at history and differences on this excellent site: www.dubrovnikchessmen.com/dubrovnik-chess-sets.html .
Very good video. I just pulled the trigger on the winchester staunton set looks very familiar to the set you showed before the Leningrad. Am sure it will be perfect.
Thanks, the series is called 'supreme'. It happens that I have just one of these sets on the shelf. It's the same design you see here, but the dark pieces are a deep rosewood (see other sets in this video, to see what rosewood looks like). Please send a message through my site ancientchess.com if you'd like to discuss it further.
Thanks for asking. I'm sorry to say I don't know -- I get them like that from the factory. If anyone has a suggestion, let us know. Occasionally I find a piece that's a little dull and I'd like to shine it up!
Thanks! Comment or send questions any time. More videos can be selected here ancientchess.com/page/videos.htm ... and our book is out now at aworldofchess.com
Looks like I made a mistake here. The chess set shown was owned by Zukertort (affectionately known as Sugar-Pie), but the "Immortal Game" was played between Adolf Anderssen and Lionel Kieseritzky (June 21, 1851). Somewhere I read an assertion that this or a similar set was actually used in the Immortal Game ... but now I can't find the source! So... count me One Bad, while I go do some more research...
Thanks for asking. That nice little rosewood set can be found at the following page ... it comes with a folding box/board www.ebay.com/itm/SMALL-FOLDING-ROSEWOOD-CHESS-SET-INLAID-11-5-8-BOARD-K-2-5-391/223097114526?hash=item33f19fcf9e:g:K2oAAMXQl99Q56kH:sc:USPSPriority!34231!US!-1:rk:6:pf:0
(continuing)... The pieces in the video are made in factories in India... so that's the place to investigate -- but I haven't yet. It seems that Jaques of London gives us the long-standing traditional standard for Staunton sets, and the 1849 copyright page can still be viewed (though fire damaged)...but most of us have seen dozens if not hundreds of variations on that theme, all considered Staunton.
Those are the "supreme" design. I have have them now in boxwood/rosewood, which is actually a nicer, richer wood than the one shown here (here is shown boxwood/sheesham). If you go to my website, ancientchess com and select the "Staunton" icon (first thing in the second row under the video), it will take you to several including this "FINE ROSEWOOD SUPREME..."
Great video my friend, very informative, I am looking for a good chess set too, preferably inexpensive, house of staunton if possible. Do you have any good suggestions? Anywhere I can go see some videos of good house of staunton chess sets? thanks!
I agree! This guy is really great, very thorough! If you are looking at videos of close up chess sets, there's this guy Al Su, he's pretty thorough and shows pieces up close, take a look. th-cam.com/channels/N9hWmsod9kzRQpc0D0tIJw.html
I don’t believe the Zagreb set has been used in any historic tournaments. The set is based on the Dubrovnik set, which is indeed an iconic set made in 1949 (used in the 9th Chess Olympiad), which saw design iterations in 1959 (used in the 1959 Candidates Tournament) and 1960 (used in the 1961 Bled International Tournament and in the 1992 Fischer-Spassky match). But the Zagreb set features knights that were introduced in the ’90s as far as I know. Some versions are called the Zagreb ’59 set, after the 1959 Candidates Tournament; but they were never used in that tournament, as it’s a much later design without any historic significance as far as I know.
One set that I find missing in this presentation is Paul Murphy's set. An elegant variation of classic Staunton. Anyway, very nice and valuable presentation of some of the best known styles of chessmen. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for the good comment. For those interested, the "Paul Morphy" design can be found here on Amazon (good price) : www.amazon.com/s?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=paul+morphy+chess+set (let me know if that is not the design you had in mind)... It's not likely that Morphy played many, if any, games on a set like this, however. The 'Staunton' design had only been patented in 1849, and was not established as the official international set until 1924. Morphy visited Europe to play the greatest players there in 1959 .. and Staunton, his chief adversary, and greatest proponent of the Staunton chessmen pattern, famously did not manage to show up and play Morphy during that visit. It's likely Morphy played most games on variations of the Directoire or Regency designs, and old English patterns including the Barleycorn sets, with which he has posed for pictures. [this post is from Rick -- I just realized my computer was open to my daughter's account when I was posting it!]
@@drazini THANK YOU for a valuable piece of history regarding Paul Morphy vs. Staunton. Encyclopedia of chess information, arn't you! Yes, those Paul Morphy sets you linked to on Amazon are the ones I had in mind. Thank you for that, too! Keep up with interesting chess videos!
The game of chess was born in Bharat (India )during the Gupta dynasty in the 6th century. Today, more than 1500 years later, it is played in 172 countries. Chess is one of India's contribution to world culture, with games played in the court of kings, to those played in villages, and now, is a professional sport.
Awesome and informative video. I am in the process of making my own pieces and was wondering what type of wood to use. Also, I was wondering what style / shape to use for the pieces. This answered both curiosities. I appreciate you taking the time to make this! -cKw
Really nice to see some of these close up and against eachother in natural lighting. Saw that you had to evacuate for the hurricane. Hope all is well. Thanks.
Thanks for the message. Yes, I still get my best light outside. Was away about a week with the family, we stayed with relatives. Turned out to be very little damage to our home, others were not so lucky. Back now and getting back on track....
Thanks for the comments. Yes, the chess houses have definitely decided that 'sheesham' doesn't sound great, and are calling it either golden- or honey rosewood. A very nice wood, deserving a nice name. I think this is a very good point. You don't want to have a chess set that's too precious to play on -- that just wouldn't make sense! That's one reason I am fond of reproduction sets. Antiques are just too valuable to touch - but reproductions can play chess. Rick AncientChess com
Hi, I am very late to this video it was really nice and very informative! I really want to know the name of the set that you said was the most popular set (sheesham) starting at about 7:11 into the video! Where can I get this specific set? I am relatively new to wood sets and loved the look and overall design of that set! Thank you for any help!
@@yakkyuu12 Thanks for finding me here! It has been a while since I sold that particular set. The supplier I used to get it from called i the "Supreme" design, with a 4 inch king. Others may have it listed by other names. Anyway, keep looking around at chess sets, and if you like, let me know what you are finding available online
Thanks for asking. You'll find that set here on eBay, made of boxwood and genuine ebony www.ebay.com/itm/GENUINE-EBONY-CHESS-MEN-BOLD-STALLION-REFINED-STAUNTON-SET-K-4-2-712/223097114473?hash=item33f19fcf69:g:QxQAAOSw6EhUSRKh:sc:USPSPriority!07105!US!-1
Good questions! 1) I don't know how much automation there is nowadays in production, but I believe it is always more as time goes on. I know a very good researcher, Milissa Ellison, who is looking into that question. I'll have to ask her what she's finding. 2) I haven't read anything absolute about how far the Staunton design can deviate. It is an issue of course in tournaments. From what I have read (official US rules), it is first of all up to the players, and if needed up to the referee.
I love that set, because it's design is beautiful, but simple (wich makes it perfectly playable), and specialy the wood natural colors and stripes. That wood has only 2 problems: hard to work (dark parts feel like rock, but light parts are quite smooth), and it's kinda photo-sensitive (light parts get red and darker over time, when exposed to light), but there is probably some way to avoid that. But it's a very resistent wood. (oh! I guess it's called "tigerwood" or "zebrawood" in english)
Thanks, I'm going through some changes with the website now, and won't have anything new listed for a few weeks. Please come back to ancientchess.com sometime soon, maybe September... Rick
Thanks for the question. The best set I have now, shown in this video at 6:20, is the Bold Stallion set. It's made of boxwood and genuine ebony, now selling for $210 including shipping within the U.S. (a little more to ship to other countries). You can find it by going to my eBay store and searching the word 'stallion'. www.ebay.com/str/worldchessandfinearts (I will have some listings down, while I'm on vacation; back up on August 12th)
+Daniel Sandoval I get these straight from a factory in India, probably the same place the Chess Store gets them. You'll find that I have many items for sale which are less expensive than the same sets from 'big chess business' dealers (which is ironic since I deal in much lower quantities). BUT, it happens that I'm not carrying that particular design right now ... so you might have to get it from the Big Boys -- but looking at what I do have in stock is certainly worth a shot -- AncientChess.com
+AncientChess Where specifically can I find the "ultimate" set? With the finely-carved miniature pieces? I have an old chess table with ~34mm squares, and it's impossible to find something good for it.
Thanks for the message. Which book do you mean (in what time marker of the video)? These books are pretty easily available on Amazon ... tell me which and I'll give the the author/title
How much would a set like this cost? It's very nice. I'll be shopping around for a new chess set. Just realized yesterday that the dreuke pieces that I've been having for over 20 years are too small for my board.
Sir, the Bold Stallion set at 6:10 is absolutely stunning! I found on your website the “refined” version for sale. What is the difference between refined and the original versions and do you still sell the original version shown in this video? Regards
Thanks for your message. The one I have for sale is the same design as shown here. It is just called 'refined' as a description, not meant as the name of the set. Yes, I think if you view the listing, you will see it is the same set. stores.ebay.com/worldchessandfinearts?_dmd=2&_nkw=stallion
It seems like 'Gonçalo alves', along with other names, is used in English as well. Wikipedia: Gonçalo alves is a hardwood. It is sometimes referred to as zebrawood or tigerwood - names that underscore the wood’s often dramatic, contrasting color scheme, that some compare to rosewood. Even the russian wikipedia calls it Гонсало альвес = gonsalo alves. And it is a nice looking wood for sure!
Interesting question. I assume you mean those simplified knights' heads that are used in international tournaments. We have a discussion of those knights in another video: "Blue and White Inlaid Wood Chessboard with Red and White Chessmen". Many people find them nice, but I find them too simple and lacking in character. What do you think?
Hello! Very nice video. I would love to know what wood combination is your board. It looks very sweet, very mild tones! If possible could you please tell where could I get that particular board. Thank you in advance.
Looks like comment from RK831 was removed. Anyway, it raises a good point: Many of these designs have queens with tiny brittle points (like the one at the start of this video). Very breakable! I can't tell you how many queens I've had to take out of commission because one of their little crown points was broken. A good consideration if you're buying or handling a set!
Thanks for the message. I would very much like to see that set, but I do not find it by a google search. Do you have any other ideas how to find the site? I know it is a problem that TH-cam will not allow us to send web addresses in this comment thread.
That is strange. I have no idea why my comment was removed. Anyhow, I find that the French Lardy queen's coronet is the most durable, as there are no breakable points. For other Staunton sets with brittle coronet points, I suggest buying fitting pipe caps to protect the crowns while stored.
...fool, courier, elephant, adviser ... historically an archer, judge, adviser ... It has also been suggested that the shape of the bishop in the Zagreb set simulates the shape of an actual bishop in the Eastern Orthodox church.
Thanks Pogsie, I got all these from a company in India... same place the big chess seller, House of Staunton, etc., get them. I'm trying to restart that connection again ... but prices for everything are high now -- especially international shipping.... ancientchess.com
I might be able to help. Tell me exactly what you need. Also, measure the king's height to be sure we're talking about the same size set. Notice also what sort of padding the pieces have on the bottoms.
Well, I'd say it's more like bodybuilding. Saying it's only biceps is a little insulting ;) The game of chess helps to develop quite a few intelectual capacities. But I generally agree, that there is a lot more to do that chess doesn't impact at all. Same way like bodybuilding doesn't help to jump high like MJ or run long distances :)
@Mr Awesome Wrong, chess has been shown to increase iq and this was at quite a low 'dosage' in the test subjects.... studies to prove it. Challenging games actually have carry over to many areas of your life life..... And avoiding dementia is more about healthy nutrition.
@Mr Awesome Good for you buddy... am I supposed to be in awe of that or something? I've been studying psychology for years... as well as neuroscience as they are two subjects I have much interested in ,as i am fascinated by the human mind. I would have to go through a big stack of books to find you the exact study... it was something like two 1 hour sessions a week over a 3 month period that raised iq by 10 points in subjects or something like that. Which considering is a very low stimulus is impressive ... you will also find many other studies that show video games increasing grey matter in individuals. The body is a biological adaptation machine, it adapts based on the environmental stresses imposed on it and games of the right kind are perceived as a stress that calls for adaptation.... and thus you literally make physical changes within your brain as an adaptation repose (neuroplasticity.) Hope you learnt something today cya.
I agree. I have heard from some people who think the German knight, the one used for most high level tournaments, is actually a nice, modern development. But to me, it's simply devoid of character. I can't help thinking that those sets, like our plastic tournament sets, were selected mostly because they are cheap to make and easy to stock a large tournament with.
Thanks for asking about the 'ultimate' chess set. I now have them listed on eBay as "PETITE FINEST CARVING ROSEWOOD INLAID CHESS SET K=2.5" ". They are item number 251074390176 (but that item number can will probably change soon). The listing includes a folding inlaid wood board.
Hi Rick, I have two questions. 1. How are wooden chess sets made when mass produced? Do they have automatic robotlike machins or must skilled craftsmen turn every piece by hand? And how are the knights made? Are there machines for them, or must they be carved by hand? And what about the pieces in this video? Are the made by hand? 2. How much can one change the look of a staunton design and still call it staunton? (Maybe this question is too difficult to answer. If so, I understand)
I think you're right. I'm sure I've seen the work 'copyrighted' in print, but that doesn't make it right. A recent article by Frank Camaratta (big Jaques/Staunton authority) tells me '...I obtained a copy of the design registration for the Staunton chessmen from the patent office in London..." I have no idea what the difference is legally, especially now that anyone anywhere can crank out a Staunton set without authorization (can't they?).. but "patent" seems to be the right word!
Hey AncientChess, how you doing? I had a question about this video. What size king is being displayed on the set at 7:30 ? It looks like either 4" or 3.5" but I can't tell. Thanks for your time.
good question. I think that copyrights exist, but are almost never enforced. In all the time I have dealt in chess sets, only once have I been asked to hold off because of rights issues. I think the claimant has to have their own team of attorneys combing the internet to enforce their claim
@@drazini thank you so much sir ... it was a big doubt ... actually thinking of making chess pieces and materials for a small handcraft business. Love from India ❤
Beatutiful set! Design reminds me of Filipino sets, but this is more streamlined. And yes, what an amazing wood grain. I don't know what this would be called in English either. I don't think I've seen it before.
Rosewood is considered to be a better quality wood -- and 'bud rosewood' (or sometimes 'blood rosewood') is considered to be the best. I do not know if it is because of the color or the actual strength of the wood. The name 'sheesham' is not so familiar to most native English speakers (or at least, to Americans), so sellers have been calling it 'honey rosewood' or 'golden rosewood' to make it sound more appealing. It really is an excellent quality wood for chessmen ... but less expensive than 'real' rosewood or bud rosewood.
Thanks for asking. I'm sorry to say this video was made a few years ago, and I don't have most of these sets on hand anymore. You can always check my available items at www.ebay.com/str/worldchessandfinearts
How Long does it usually take for the item to deliver to an international country? Pls answer as I have ordered an item from your website but no information on when it delivers...
If you order from me, at AncientChess.com, I send by Priority Mail, which is supposed to get anywhere within 2 weeks. Usually sooner, occasionally longer.
Hi. Can somebody help me out? I want to buy one of those sets, however I also want a foldable chessboard that serves as a box at the same time. Everywhere I know you can only buy a flat board for your pieces and if you want a foldable box style, they come with pieces already, which makes it more expensive. Where can I buy a nice hand made chessboard-case for them?
Hard to find the folding boards with no pieces, though i seem to remember one of the major online retailers selling a couple. ebay & amazon are worth a look, maybe etsy too. good luck.
I would think something like this, for $135 ... www.ebay.com/itm/FISCHER-vs-SPASSKY-CHESS-MEN-NATURAL-WOOD-WORLD-CHAMPIONSHIP-SET-K-3-75-534/223097114488?hash=item33f19fcf78:g:E9QAAOxySE9Q5698:sc:USPSPriority!34231!US!-1 ..or if that's not the right budget, I would just search 'staunton chess' on eBay and many good possibilities will come up!
Hey my Chess Friends!
I appear in this new 4-hour film series on the Culture of Chess!
INFO AND DOWNLOAD AT ideasroadshow.com/chess/
WATCH THE TRAILER AT th-cam.com/video/zLnOklDkTGQ/w-d-xo.html
DVD FOR PURCHASE ON AMAZON www.amazon.com//dp/B0C13M1B84/
did you say you sell sets? I like the set that has the sheesham and boxwood pieces - but not clear on the name - you don't say what the name is, but you have that section titled "zagreb" but you also call the next set zagreb????
Loved this vid. I have always been fascinated with historic chess sets. My favorite one to play is the German Knight set. Loved the books you showed too!
Thanks for the great comment. Send your thoughts any time!
aworldofchess.com
01:52 That was cool. The way it blew and stood up.
Wow -- weather-produced dynamic effects! Thanks for the comment.
Can't wait to see your new movie, by the way
Almost like it was on que or on purpose wasn’t it? Lol
I really enjoyed looking at these beautiful pieces and hearing some of the stories behind them!
Quite an informative comparison. You got a nice collection of chess sets. Thank you for sharing!
My respect to you from a person that had and has come back to love chess again to take interest in the various styles of chess through history, well done I will continue to have a browse of you website!!!
I’m a subscriber now. Thank you for this I recently got my Columbia ll series 4 1/2” king Staunton made of African Paudouk and boxwood. I absolutely love it. It’s from Staunton Castle in India and my board is from India made of the same wood. It’s from The Chess Empire of India (the oldest chess making company in the world) it’s considered a luxury set and it’s gorgeous!
Very well done. I enjoyed watching this!
Thanks for the good comment. Check out my web site AncientChess.com. Contact me any time with comments or questions
Beautiful set at 7:35...what is the name of this one?
The very first set you've showed was my favorite.
Totally ! It is the classic Nathaniel Cooke Design.
I love this video and always come back and watch from time to time. Wish he would make a new follow up video.
Thanks for the good comment! I haven't made any videos for almost a year -- but have many things to be videoed ... just waiting for me to get to them. In the meantime, please take a look at my long list of existing videos at ancientchess.com/page/videos.htm
Great video explaining the different chess sets, thank you :)
Very, very well done. Extremely interesting. Great detail. Thank you.
Thanks for the great comment! Send your thoughts any time
Thanks for looking that up. Yes, I can see why it's called zebrawood or tigerwood (no relation to the golf pro). Very nice! I wonder if I can find any sets available made in that...
Great video. I will be making a Christmas order for sure.
Keep up the great work
The plastic knights at 3:15 look like they’re derived from the Jaques Morphy design.
I really like this video, it was straight to the point, informative, and interesting. Thanks!
Thanks for the great comment!
Leave your thoughts on my videos any time
www.ancientchess.com/page/videos.htm
Thanks for your comment. Yes, the 'Zagreb' set shown in this video has been adapted with a cross on the king. The original design, favored by Fischer, has only a ball. This variation seems to have been the favorite of the Soviet Bloc countries, at least in the 50's, although it is also seen, for instance, in Murray's History of Chess (1913), page 773. The idea that the piece next to the king and queen is a 'bishop' seems to be English and Scandinavian. Most countries call it something else.
If I may correct you on one small matter- it's not Zagreb set (which you have shown in the video), but Dubrovnik set that was favourite of Bobby Fischer's. There were three 'official' versions of the set- and I hope you'll find it interesting to take a look at history and differences on this excellent site: www.dubrovnikchessmen.com/dubrovnik-chess-sets.html .
Great use of the camera putting it behind the big chess pieces while you told us the story.
Thanks Benjamin, year by year I get more ideas about putting these videos together. Send comments any time.
AWorldofChess.com
Very good video. I just pulled the trigger on the winchester staunton set looks very familiar to the set you showed before the Leningrad. Am sure it will be perfect.
Oh yes, the Winchester set should be great. I'd love to play on one of those
Just subbed....I’m interested in the set @ 7:22...Do u know where I can order that and what the series is called?
Thanks, the series is called 'supreme'. It happens that I have just one of these sets on the shelf. It's the same design you see here, but the dark pieces are a deep rosewood (see other sets in this video, to see what rosewood looks like). Please send a message through my site ancientchess.com if you'd like to discuss it further.
Thanks for asking. I'm sorry to say I don't know -- I get them like that from the factory. If anyone has a suggestion, let us know. Occasionally I find a piece that's a little dull and I'd like to shine it up!
11:44 - The King escapes. Awesome rundown on a few very well made sets.
11:44
At 11:35 I like the ultimate design, very nice chess piece, is just not too tall enough 🙂. Thanks for the video👍🙂
Very nice and informative review of sets. Thank you.
Thanks! Comment or send questions any time.
More videos can be selected here ancientchess.com/page/videos.htm ...
and our book is out now at aworldofchess.com
Looks like I made a mistake here. The chess set shown was owned by Zukertort (affectionately known as Sugar-Pie), but the "Immortal Game" was played between Adolf Anderssen and Lionel Kieseritzky (June 21, 1851). Somewhere I read an assertion that this or a similar set was actually used in the Immortal Game ... but now I can't find the source! So... count me One Bad, while I go do some more research...
I enjoyed watching this video, thank you for the well done presentation! :)
My pleasure! check my other videos on ancientchess.com/page/videos.htm ...
and leave messages any time
rosewood set at 11:01 to 11:30 . Please help me find it on your site. What do you call it?
Thanks for asking. That nice little rosewood set can be found at the following page ... it comes with a folding box/board www.ebay.com/itm/SMALL-FOLDING-ROSEWOOD-CHESS-SET-INLAID-11-5-8-BOARD-K-2-5-391/223097114526?hash=item33f19fcf9e:g:K2oAAMXQl99Q56kH:sc:USPSPriority!34231!US!-1:rk:6:pf:0
(continuing)...
The pieces in the video are made in factories in India... so that's the place to investigate -- but I haven't yet.
It seems that Jaques of London gives us the long-standing traditional standard for Staunton sets, and the 1849 copyright page can still be viewed (though fire damaged)...but most of us have seen dozens if not hundreds of variations on that theme, all considered Staunton.
Thanks for your message. That king is almost 4 inches, by measurement it's 3 7/8 inches.
Nice video could you tell me what the name of these books are that you show at the beginning please.
Thanks for asking.
0:24 A History of Chess by HJR Murray
1:14 Chess: An Illustrated History by Raymond Keene
1:55 Master Pieces by Gareth Williams
Thanks! I think you'll like this little set a lot. I'll get it out to you right away.
Excellent video. Thanks for sharing that.
Thanks very much, Wheelses. Send your thoughts or questions any time.
Rick
aworldofchess.com
What lovely sets anyone who plays chess would love all of them
Great video and awesome yard setting for a game.
what is the set at 8:08? it's the best set I've seen so far
yeah, please tell us, I wanna get one, too :-)
Those are the "supreme" design. I have have them now in boxwood/rosewood, which is actually a nicer, richer wood than the one shown here (here is shown boxwood/sheesham). If you go to my website, ancientchess com and select the "Staunton" icon (first thing in the second row under the video), it will take you to several including this "FINE ROSEWOOD SUPREME..."
The Chess Store sells that set under the name of the fierce knight set.
thechessstore.com/search.php?search_query=Fierce+knight
You can also find the same set in same wood at www.chessbazaar.com with the name Fierce Knight 4.0 inch King set in sheesham wood and boxwood.
Great video my friend, very informative, I am looking for a good chess set too, preferably inexpensive, house of staunton if possible. Do you have any good suggestions? Anywhere I can go see some videos of good house of staunton chess sets? thanks!
I agree! This guy is really great, very thorough! If you are looking at videos of close up chess sets, there's this guy Al Su, he's pretty thorough and shows pieces up close, take a look. th-cam.com/channels/N9hWmsod9kzRQpc0D0tIJw.html
@@bugcool8576 Yeah this guy is good! We need more people doing chess set reviews honestly, slim pickings out there!
Epale amigo, doy de Venezuela, Edo Zulia, Maracaibo.
Cuanto es el costo de ese Ajedrez?
I don’t believe the Zagreb set has been used in any historic tournaments. The set is based on the Dubrovnik set, which is indeed an iconic set made in 1949 (used in the 9th Chess Olympiad), which saw design iterations in 1959 (used in the 1959 Candidates Tournament) and 1960 (used in the 1961 Bled International Tournament and in the 1992 Fischer-Spassky match).
But the Zagreb set features knights that were introduced in the ’90s as far as I know. Some versions are called the Zagreb ’59 set, after the 1959 Candidates Tournament; but they were never used in that tournament, as it’s a much later design without any historic significance as far as I know.
One set that I find missing in this presentation is Paul Murphy's set. An elegant variation of classic Staunton. Anyway, very nice and valuable presentation of some of the best known styles of chessmen. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for the good comment. For those interested, the "Paul Morphy" design can be found here on Amazon (good price) :
www.amazon.com/s?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=paul+morphy+chess+set
(let me know if that is not the design you had in mind)...
It's not likely that Morphy played many, if any, games on a set like this, however. The 'Staunton' design had only been patented in 1849, and was not established as the official international set until 1924. Morphy visited Europe to play the greatest players there in 1959 .. and Staunton, his chief adversary, and greatest proponent of the Staunton chessmen pattern, famously did not manage to show up and play Morphy during that visit. It's likely Morphy played most games on variations of the Directoire or Regency designs, and old English patterns including the Barleycorn sets, with which he has posed for pictures.
[this post is from Rick -- I just realized my computer was open to my daughter's account when I was posting it!]
@@drazini THANK YOU for a valuable piece of history regarding Paul Morphy vs. Staunton. Encyclopedia of chess information, arn't you!
Yes, those Paul Morphy sets you linked to on Amazon are the ones I had in mind. Thank you for that, too!
Keep up with interesting chess videos!
great variety of chessmen.
Thanks for the nice comment. Yes, once you get the 'bug', the variety is endless!
What's the name of the set at 7:10? Will you have any discount codes by any chance? For instance deals on them since Christmas is coming up?
Fierce knight chess set. I bought one from Chessbazaar.
The game of chess was born in Bharat (India )during the Gupta dynasty in the 6th century. Today, more than 1500 years later, it is played in 172 countries. Chess is one of India's contribution to world culture, with games played in the court of kings, to those played in villages, and now, is a professional sport.
Awesome and informative video. I am in the process of making my own pieces and was wondering what type of wood to use. Also, I was wondering what style / shape to use for the pieces. This answered both curiosities. I appreciate you taking the time to make this!
-cKw
Did you end up making it ?
Really nice to see some of these close up and against eachother in natural lighting. Saw that you had to evacuate for the hurricane. Hope all is well. Thanks.
Thanks for the message. Yes, I still get my best light outside. Was away about a week with the family, we stayed with relatives. Turned out to be very little damage to our home, others were not so lucky. Back now and getting back on track....
Thanks for the comments. Yes, the chess houses have definitely decided that 'sheesham' doesn't sound great, and are calling it either golden- or honey rosewood. A very nice wood, deserving a nice name.
I think this is a very good point. You don't want to have a chess set that's too precious to play on -- that just wouldn't make sense! That's one reason I am fond of reproduction sets. Antiques are just too valuable to touch - but reproductions can play chess.
Rick
AncientChess com
Hi,
I am very late to this video it was really nice and very informative!
I really want to know the name of the set that you said was the most popular set (sheesham) starting at about 7:11 into the video!
Where can I get this specific set? I am relatively new to wood sets and loved the look and overall design of that set!
Thank you for any help!
@@yakkyuu12 Thanks for finding me here!
It has been a while since I sold that particular set. The supplier I used to get it from called i the "Supreme" design, with a 4 inch king. Others may have it listed by other names. Anyway, keep looking around at chess sets, and if you like, let me know what you are finding available online
6:26 how can I find this one? the knight is amazing.
Thanks for asking. You'll find that set here on eBay, made of boxwood and genuine ebony
www.ebay.com/itm/GENUINE-EBONY-CHESS-MEN-BOLD-STALLION-REFINED-STAUNTON-SET-K-4-2-712/223097114473?hash=item33f19fcf69:g:QxQAAOSw6EhUSRKh:sc:USPSPriority!07105!US!-1
very nice video, thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the great comment! I've got many hours of them. Check out ancientchess.com/page/videos.htm
Good questions!
1) I don't know how much automation there is nowadays in production, but I believe it is always more as time goes on. I know a very good researcher, Milissa Ellison, who is looking into that question. I'll have to ask her what she's finding.
2) I haven't read anything absolute about how far the Staunton design can deviate. It is an issue of course in tournaments. From what I have read (official US rules), it is first of all up to the players, and if needed up to the referee.
Unable to find the Fischer-Spassky Staunton black-and-white set.
You mean .. in the video, or to buy online ..?
Thanks for your sharing ! do you have some french chess set ( I think to Lardy and Chavet factory's ) to exposed ?
I love that set, because it's design is beautiful, but simple (wich makes it perfectly playable), and specialy the wood natural colors and stripes. That wood has only 2 problems: hard to work (dark parts feel like rock, but light parts are quite smooth), and it's kinda photo-sensitive (light parts get red and darker over time, when exposed to light), but there is probably some way to avoid that. But it's a very resistent wood. (oh! I guess it's called "tigerwood" or "zebrawood" in english)
Where can I buy these sets that are or have been used in the world championship matches. I really want a good one pieces and board
Thanks, I'm going through some changes with the website now, and won't have anything new listed for a few weeks. Please come back to ancientchess.com sometime soon, maybe September...
Rick
this is great, how much does this set cost??
Thanks for the question. The best set I have now, shown in this video at 6:20, is the Bold Stallion set. It's made of boxwood and genuine ebony, now selling for $210 including shipping within the U.S. (a little more to ship to other countries). You can find it by going to my eBay store and searching the word 'stallion'.
www.ebay.com/str/worldchessandfinearts
(I will have some listings down, while I'm on vacation; back up on August 12th)
Hi Suren. I watch your videos. They're very good and I learn from them. Much love from me!!
thank you dear Freako203 ;)
Minute 8:00
Are those chessmen from The Chess Store?
+Daniel Sandoval I get these straight from a factory in India, probably the same place the Chess Store gets them. You'll find that I have many items for sale which are less expensive than the same sets from 'big chess business' dealers (which is ironic since I deal in much lower quantities). BUT, it happens that I'm not carrying that particular design right now ... so you might have to get it from the Big Boys -- but looking at what I do have in stock is certainly worth a shot -- AncientChess.com
+AncientChess Where specifically can I find the "ultimate" set? With the finely-carved miniature pieces?
I have an old chess table with ~34mm squares, and it's impossible to find something good for it.
Where can I get that book.? Some great sets there. 👍
Thanks for the message. Which book do you mean (in what time marker of the video)? These books are pretty easily available on Amazon ... tell me which and I'll give the the author/title
@@AncientChess Do one video on the chess books you own.
How much would a set like this cost? It's very nice. I'll be shopping around for a new chess set. Just realized yesterday that the dreuke pieces that I've been having for over 20 years are too small for my board.
in time 7:14 model please?? thanks
Thanks for asking about that set. I don't have these now... I'll have to look it up and will try to get back to you
@@AncientChess thanks, im very happy
Thansk for the good comment. What do you mean about the King exactly?
Sir, the Bold Stallion set at 6:10 is absolutely stunning!
I found on your website the “refined” version for sale. What is the difference between refined and the original versions and do you still sell the original version shown in this video?
Regards
Thanks for your message. The one I have for sale is the same design as shown here. It is just called 'refined' as a description, not meant as the name of the set. Yes, I think if you view the listing, you will see it is the same set. stores.ebay.com/worldchessandfinearts?_dmd=2&_nkw=stallion
AncientChess thank you.
I ended up buying a 4.4” reproduction of Jaques of London 1850 in genuine Ebony wood! 🙂
It seems like 'Gonçalo alves', along with other names, is used in English as well.
Wikipedia: Gonçalo alves is a hardwood. It is sometimes referred to as zebrawood or tigerwood - names that underscore the wood’s often dramatic, contrasting color scheme, that some compare to rosewood.
Even the russian wikipedia calls it Гонсало альвес = gonsalo alves.
And it is a nice looking wood for sure!
Interesting question. I assume you mean those simplified knights' heads that are used in international tournaments. We have a discussion of those knights in another video: "Blue and White Inlaid Wood Chessboard with Red and White Chessmen". Many people find them nice, but I find them too simple and lacking in character. What do you think?
It would be good if you had shown ALL the pieces for each set, that is, the king, the queen, a knight, a bishop, a rook and a pawn.
Yeah, that's true -- I usually do. I hope you'll check out some more of my videos.
AncientChess.com
Hello! Very nice video. I would love to know what wood combination is your board. It looks very sweet, very mild tones! If possible could you please tell where could I get that particular board. Thank you in advance.
Looks like comment from RK831 was removed. Anyway, it raises a good point: Many of these designs have queens with tiny brittle points (like the one at the start of this video). Very breakable! I can't tell you how many queens I've had to take out of commission because one of their little crown points was broken. A good consideration if you're buying or handling a set!
Thanks for the message. I would very much like to see that set, but I do not find it by a google search. Do you have any other ideas how to find the site? I know it is a problem that TH-cam will not allow us to send web addresses in this comment thread.
That is strange. I have no idea why my comment was removed. Anyhow, I find that the French Lardy queen's coronet is the most durable, as there are no breakable points. For other Staunton sets with brittle coronet points, I suggest buying fitting pipe caps to protect the crowns while stored.
...fool, courier, elephant, adviser ... historically an archer, judge, adviser ...
It has also been suggested that the shape of the bishop in the Zagreb set simulates the shape of an actual bishop in the Eastern Orthodox church.
Hey Rick, where did you get that beautiful sheesham and boxwood set?
Thanks Pogsie, I got all these from a company in India... same place the big chess seller, House of Staunton, etc., get them. I'm trying to restart that connection again ... but prices for everything are high now -- especially international shipping....
ancientchess.com
Very nice presentation and explanation. Thanks :-)
I might be able to help. Tell me exactly what you need. Also, measure the king's height to be sure we're talking about the same size set. Notice also what sort of padding the pieces have on the bottoms.
Where can you buy that 2.5" ultimate set?
@@ChitosVids Thanks, sorry, I don't have that one anymore. My listings can be found here
www.ebay.com/str/worldchessandfinearts
chess = taking your brain to the gym.
Yeah, but that's like only gymming biceps. There's many other intellectual capacities of the brain to also train and maintain.
Well, I'd say it's more like bodybuilding. Saying it's only biceps is a little insulting ;) The game of chess helps to develop quite a few intelectual capacities. But I generally agree, that there is a lot more to do that chess doesn't impact at all. Same way like bodybuilding doesn't help to jump high like MJ or run long distances :)
I don't like to play chess tournaments. I only play chess for recreation with my family and friends.
@Mr Awesome Wrong, chess has been shown to increase iq and this was at quite a low 'dosage' in the test subjects.... studies to prove it. Challenging games actually have carry over to many areas of your life life..... And avoiding dementia is more about healthy nutrition.
@Mr Awesome Good for you buddy... am I supposed to be in awe of that or something? I've been studying psychology for years... as well as neuroscience as they are two subjects I have much interested in ,as i am fascinated by the human mind. I would have to go through a big stack of books to find you the exact study... it was something like two 1 hour sessions a week over a 3 month period that raised iq by 10 points in subjects or something like that. Which considering is a very low stimulus is impressive ... you will also find many other studies that show video games increasing grey matter in individuals. The body is a biological adaptation machine, it adapts based on the environmental stresses imposed on it and games of the right kind are perceived as a stress that calls for adaptation.... and thus you literally make physical changes within your brain as an adaptation repose (neuroplasticity.) Hope you learnt something today cya.
I agree. I have heard from some people who think the German knight, the one used for most high level tournaments, is actually a nice, modern development. But to me, it's simply devoid of character. I can't help thinking that those sets, like our plastic tournament sets, were selected mostly because they are cheap to make and easy to stock a large tournament with.
Hello! What size is the chess board in this video?
Whats a good book on the history of chess to get?
I have the perfect answer for that! Please see the video at this website aworldofchess.com/video.html
The sound of peices being taken is so good
Satisfying! :)
the knight from the zagreb set looks wonderful
Thanks for asking about the 'ultimate' chess set. I now have them listed on eBay as "PETITE FINEST CARVING ROSEWOOD INLAID CHESS SET K=2.5" ". They are item number 251074390176 (but that item number can will probably change soon). The listing includes a folding inlaid wood board.
What is the height of the king at 7:14?
Those guys are 10.5 cm tall, just a pinch over 4 inches
AncientChess Thank you
What is your opinion of the German Knight Staunton chess set?
Hi Rick, I have two questions.
1. How are wooden chess sets made when mass produced? Do they have automatic robotlike machins or must skilled craftsmen turn every piece by hand? And how are the knights made? Are there machines for them, or must they be carved by hand?
And what about the pieces in this video? Are the made by hand?
2. How much can one change the look of a staunton design and still call it staunton? (Maybe this question is too difficult to answer. If so, I understand)
hi,
could you state the books you are using?
thanks
I think you're right. I'm sure I've seen the work 'copyrighted' in print, but that doesn't make it right. A recent article by Frank Camaratta (big Jaques/Staunton authority) tells me '...I obtained a copy of the design registration for the Staunton chessmen from the patent office in London..." I have no idea what the difference is legally, especially now that anyone anywhere can crank out a Staunton set without authorization (can't they?).. but "patent" seems to be the right word!
Yes, a very beautiful portrayal of a horse. It was pointed out to me that this long, curved neck is how horses are portrayed in classic Russian art.
Books referenced? How about an ISBN number for each?
Thanks for asking. Sorry, that's a bit too much trouble. Easy to find with a google or amazon search, I promise.
Hey AncientChess, how you doing? I had a question about this video. What size king is being displayed on the set at 7:30 ? It looks like either 4" or 3.5" but I can't tell. Thanks for your time.
Do you sell the Staunton set that you first showed because I have the exact same set and I need replacements.
Is there any copyright for making chess piece ... ?? For a business purposes?
good question. I think that copyrights exist, but are almost never enforced. In all the time I have dealt in chess sets, only once have I been asked to hold off because of rights issues. I think the claimant has to have their own team of attorneys combing the internet to enforce their claim
@@drazini thank you so much sir ... it was a big doubt ... actually thinking of making chess pieces and materials for a small handcraft business. Love from India ❤
How much price sir
Beatutiful set! Design reminds me of Filipino sets, but this is more streamlined. And yes, what an amazing wood grain. I don't know what this would be called in English either. I don't think I've seen it before.
Is the Rosewood same group or rate of sheesham wood ? Which is better؟
Rosewood is considered to be a better quality wood -- and 'bud rosewood' (or sometimes 'blood rosewood') is considered to be the best. I do not know if it is because of the color or the actual strength of the wood.
The name 'sheesham' is not so familiar to most native English speakers (or at least, to Americans), so sellers have been calling it 'honey rosewood' or 'golden rosewood' to make it sound more appealing. It really is an excellent quality wood for chessmen ... but less expensive than 'real' rosewood or bud rosewood.
May we know how much is the Chess set?
Thanks for asking. I'm sorry to say this video was made a few years ago, and I don't have most of these sets on hand anymore. You can always check my available items at www.ebay.com/str/worldchessandfinearts
How Long does it usually take for the item to deliver to an international country? Pls answer as I have ordered an item from your website but no information on when it delivers...
If you order from me, at AncientChess.com, I send by Priority Mail, which is supposed to get anywhere within 2 weeks. Usually sooner, occasionally longer.
Hi. Can somebody help me out? I want to buy one of those sets, however I also want a foldable chessboard that serves as a box at the same time. Everywhere I know you can only buy a flat board for your pieces and if you want a foldable box style, they come with pieces already, which makes it more expensive. Where can I buy a nice hand made chessboard-case for them?
Hard to find the folding boards with no pieces, though i seem to remember one of the major online retailers selling a couple. ebay & amazon are worth a look, maybe etsy too. good luck.
What is the official size on the squares?
What set would you recommend as a good, nicely carved starter set on a budget?
I would think something like this, for $135 ...
www.ebay.com/itm/FISCHER-vs-SPASSKY-CHESS-MEN-NATURAL-WOOD-WORLD-CHAMPIONSHIP-SET-K-3-75-534/223097114488?hash=item33f19fcf78:g:E9QAAOxySE9Q5698:sc:USPSPriority!34231!US!-1
..or if that's not the right budget, I would just search 'staunton chess' on eBay and many good possibilities will come up!
Have you ever mix up pieces in similar sets? Is it hard to re-categorize them or you'd know in an instant?
Hey Rick, i'm looking to buy a Staunton chess set. My price range is $200-$300. What do you recommend?
I recommend the v2 Fisher-Spaasky from chessbazaar. Love the way it handles. bit.ly/2ST9Wuv
what size pieces should I get for a 20 by 20 board
a standard set with 3.75 or 4 inch king should be good for a board that size. Just about any of the sets shown in this video would be good.
Nicely done. Thank you.
Thanks for the good comment!