From Chaturanga to Chess: The Game's Rich History
Chess is one of the oldest and most revered board games in the world, with origins tracing back to the 6th century in India, where it was known as chaturanga. The game spread through Persia and the Islamic world, eventually reaching Europe by the 9th century. Over time, it evolved into the modern game we know today, with standardised rules established in the 19th century.
About 100 years ago, the materials used to create chess pieces and boards began to reflect the game’s prestigious status. While early sets were often simple, made from wood or stone, the 19th and early 20th centuries saw an explosion of creativity in chess set design. Pieces were crafted from luxury materials such as ivory, bone, and precious woods like ebony and boxwood. These materials were chosen not only for their durability but also for their aesthetic appeal.
