African Wildlife Chess Set

A fine chess set is a mark of distinction suitable for display in even the most distinguished of rooms. Michael Ricker, the world renowned metalsmith, provides the types of sets that satisfy the most discerning of collectors with their elegantly crafted, highly detailed pieces. Their artistry is truly peerless, and none can contest their timeless elegance.

This set features the wildlife of Africa as its subject, with chimps serving as pawns, parrots as rooks, zebra as knights, elephants as bishops, and, of course, the lion, king of all beasts, serving as royalty. Each piece moves with heft and purpose weighing in at over a pound, with the regal king standing a commanding 4 1/4 inches tall. The board measures 19 1/2 inches to a side set in gorgeous white marble and gold-toned glass to beautifully set stage for the pieces. There is a pewter nameplate fixed to one side of the board noting the collector number and the series.

This particular board has seen a lengthy period of gentle play resulting in some light scuffing across the glass surfaces. A few of the glass squares have significant scratches, with one being noticeably distorted, as if liquid had been spilled on it. The board would be graded VG overall.

Other than a gentle flattening and wear to the felted bottoms that is typical of such sets, there is no appreciable damage to any of the pieces themselves, making them NM.

Additional photos avialable upon request.

Included with the set is an appraisal from Michael Ricker dated 1994, showing the piece's continued growth as a prized piece of art. A scant 220 of these sets were ever produced making each one a precious treasure, and an opportunity not to be missed.