*SOLD* Knubbellium (The Nobs); German ‘Knubbel’ Analysis Chess Set, circa 1930-1950

Knúbbellium (The ‘Nobs’); 32 naturally weighted wooden chessmen in original box, German, wood, antiqued, amber vs. crimson, circa 1940
Height: 6.3cm/2 1/2”, wt 15g, base width 3cm, Queen 4.8cm, Bishop 4cm, Knight 4.5cm, Rook 3.5cm, Pawn 2.7cm
W: antiqued pink felt bases B: same

The ‘knubble’ chessmen (German; ‘knobs’ or ‘knobbled’) are a very popular analysis set and a one-time favourite of the great Danish grandmaster, Bent Larsen (1935-2010), thereby often associated with Denmark and Scandinavian chess in general, too. My anglicized ‘tongue-in-cheek’ moniker is a Cockney slang interpretation of the German name, ‘Nobs’ referring to the ‘upper classes’ or ‘nobility’ back in England – a ‘hot’ term lately in certain chess circles!

There are several variations and a few replicas of the knubbel design, none however will be exactly the same as this thoroughly original set! The solid crimson red has been gently knocked back and mellowed/enriched with several very fine coats of diluted amber shellac and denatured alcohol. The light side has also been antiqued and refinished in a traditional style with amber shellac and very detailed crimson red highlights using custom-matched oil colours. Antiqued pink felt has also been added to the bases to compliment the colourful goings-on above them.

In all honesty, I sincerely doubt there is a better looking Knubbel on the market.

The pieces are UV resistant and ideal for display/casual play or analysis. Both kings carry the hand-painted iridescent silver signature of the artist on their bases.

Ref code: K20