The Isle of Lewis Chess Set has evolved into one of the world's most iconic and beloved chess designs, trailing only behind the Staunton style in popularity.
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In 1831, on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, a local shepherd found a small chamber of dry-built stone about 15 feet below the top of a sandbank that had been partially washed away by the sea. The chess pieces discovered within the chamber are the oldest complete set of chessmen ever found. Most recent evidence suggests the Lewis Chessmen are of Norwegian origin and date back to the twelfth century.
The pieces are on display in the British Museum and in the Museum of Edinburgh. Visiting either museum is a worthy experience but with these replica Lewis Chessmen, you can own a little piece of history yourself.
How old is the Isle of Lewis chess set?
Most recent evidence indicate that the Lewis Chessmen date back to the 12th century.
What is the significance of the Lewis chessmen?
The Lewis Chessmen hold great historical and cultural significance as a set of elaborately carved chess pieces. The set found on the Isle of Lewis is the oldest complete set of chessmen ever found and is considered a rare and remarkable archaeological discovery.
How much are the Lewis chess pieces worth?
Recently, a single Lewis Chessman was sold at an auction for £735,000 (according to The Guardian). It can be argued however that the original chess pieces, which are on display in the British Museum and in the Museum of Edinburgh, are priceless.
Lewis Chessmen
The Lewis Chessmen exhibited at the Museum of Scotland stand at a height of 60 to 100mm and are crafted from Walrus ivory and sperm whale tooth. These chessmen possess captivating facial expressions that convey distinct emotions. Notably, each piece exudes a unique personality and character, adding to their intriguing allure. 3D models of the entire set can be found on the National Museums Scotland website.
In our range, you will find smaller chess sets – some of which come complete with the board and the chessmen. These are perfect for those with space constraints. Despite their smaller size, these sets are beautifully crafted, making them just as suited to display as they are to play.
Isle Of Lewis Compact Chess Set – 9 inches with circular cabinet
This is one of our best sellers. This charming, compact Isle of Lewis Chess Set is made from stone resin and features a nicely decorated resin box with a Chessboard lid. The cabinet / case style set features integrated storage space for all the pieces, each with its own space for protection. Despite the smaller size, the Lewis Chessmen are superbly detailed and authentic replicas of the originals, which are on display in the British Museum. Available in two colours – cream or brown.
Approx. Dimensions: King height 46mm (1 and 3/4 inches), Board diameter 21.5cm, Square 18mm.
Mini Isle of Lewis Chess Set by Berkeley Chess with 2 inch King
This is a high-quality set made in the UK by Berkeley Chess. The chessmen are made from stone resin and feature a good amount of detail. They also have felted bottoms, protecting the chess board from scratches and making the pieces glide smoothly across it. Ornamental Chess sets from Berkeley are better quality than cheaper alternatives, with crisper detailing and a slicker shadowing finish. This gives them a more natural, aged look and a more polished feel overall. These chessmen are available in two colours – Cream and Red or Cream and Brown. Please note – the chessboard is not included.
Approx. Dimensions: King height: 5.1cm (2 inch)
Isle of Lewis Chess Set by Berkeley Chess with 3.5 inch King
This is a set for a true chess enthusiast and history lover. These Replica Isle of Lewis chessmen are crafted from ground stone resin and feature a lot of of detail and delicate shading. Just like the mini set, these also include the felted bottoms. It is one of the best replicas of the historical chess set that can be found in the British Museum and the National Museum of Scotland. These chessmen are available in the following finishes: Cream & Brown, Cream & Red and Steel & Copper.
Approx. Dimensions: King height: 8.9cm (3.5 inches)