Alto Reges (The High-Kings); Soviet Upright Metal Chess Set, c.1960

King height: 90mm, weight 25g, base width 2.5cm

Queen: 75mm, wt. 25g

Bishop: 63mm, 20g

Knight: 57mm, 35g

Rook: 45mm, 32g

Pawns: 38mm, 16g

W: Prussian blue felt pads; B: same

 

These tall and slender cast aluminium pieces with their distinct ‘barrel-rooks’ appear to be a loose interpretation of the Soviet Staunton sets used in tournaments during the 1940s (see last picture). The off-white, creamy, oil-based paint of the light pieces is original and carries numerous chips and battle-scars, as would be expected of a vintage playing set of this age. The dark side has a beautifully worn patina which has been touched up in a few areas to give the set a sense of uniformity (a few of the pieces were almost devoid of any black paint at all). This has been meticulously matched to the original finish. The metal finials have also been repainted/aged in the original alternate colour scheme. Felt has been added to the bases to protect the playing surface.

 

Both queens carry the iridescent gold ‘Power’ signature on their bases and The High-Kings are also accompanied by our unique Chess Schach Certificate of Artistry.

 

Etsy Set Price: $450.00

 

*last photo: Chuck Grau; courtesy of www.sovietchesssets.com

Ref Code: AR25