Chess – the game which was initially known as the game of kings has always been effective in securing the minds of people. It is undeniable that the game has not developed over time, but the boards and tables on which the game is played are works of art today These are not just the functional pieces of furniture which are tables for playing chess on but the unique creations which can become topics of discussion. For this particular article, we are going to explain what kind of special chess tables are and their history as well as the patterns that make them unique.
A Brief History of Chess Tables
There were never chess tables much older than the game of chess such as the present modern chess as they are invented hand in hand as a combo. The Royal and noble people of the medieval period used to order fancy chess sets as signs of noble and love towards the game. These early designs represented beautiful carvings adorned with precious metals and stones a lot of the time.
Ever as chess spread to the other classes, then more utilitarian designs started appearing on the market. From the 19th century, there were produced cheap copies of chess tables and many people could afford to have them. But, the idea of getting fascinated with a chess table that is handmade and distinctly different from the others was never lost at all.
Types of Unique Chess Tables
There are several types of ches table, let’s read about some of them:
1. Antique and Vintage Tables
Antique chess tables are especially admired for their antique value as well as the work that went into the creation of the piece. Pendant pieces of such kind are usually appreciated in their style that dominated a certain period, be it Victorian or Art Deco. People collect them, as well as lovers of chess, as these souvenirs are beautiful and carry associations with the world of chess.
2. Modern Art Chess Tables
The current artists and designers have incorporated chess tables as their practical art pieces. These tables may be close in form to a conventional design of furniture at times, but may also have features that are sculptural; some of them may depict abstract representations of the chess pieces or may be made out of glass, acrylic, or recycled materials, for instance.
3. Themed Chess Tables
Themed chess tables present a novel way for chess enthusiasts to mix their passion for the game with other interests. Popular topics consist of:
- historical conflicts (such as the Napoleonic and Civil Wars)
- Fantasy realms (drawn from books or movies)
- designs that draw inspiration from nature (using things like animal patterns or tree branches)
- Teams from sports or well-known athletes
- milestones in architecture
These tables include specially carved Chess pieces that are crafted to fit the theme of the entire table therefore making it a more pleasant experience.
4. Multi-functional Chess Tables
Chess tables with several uses have been made by creative designers. Among the instances are:
- Coffee tables for chess that have piece storage integrated in
- With chess boards inlaid, dining tables
- Chess tables outside that can also be used as garden furniture
- Folding chess tables that mount to the wall are a space-saving option.
Materials and Craftsmanship
When building custom chess tables, material selection is essential. Several well-liked choices consist of:
- Wood: Any chess table whatever its style and design is incomplete without wood and that too with the best quality woods right from ebony and rosewood to locally sourced timber. In the board squares artisans may use contrast to make some parts of the board from one wood type and others from a different wood type.
- Stone and Marble: Such materials give chess tables an air of permanency and sophistication. They are especially used for exterior applications.
- Metal: Stainless steel, brass, and copper can be used to design current chess tables as the one described above having an industrial outlook. It is also common to see etching or inlaying of various details, though, one might not consider the used materials to be metal, at least not in every case
- Glass: Many middles that use glass tables prefer using clear glass or frosted ones because, with the help of such material used in the table creation, the appliances could seem lighter and more modern. Some of the tables have the glass boards etched or they have illuminated tops.
- Recycled Materials: Today, there are exquisite chess tables with patterns on them that have been made from recycled wood, remains of industrial icons, and recycled plastics.
It is sometimes the workmanship behind these tables which is as inspired as the design of the table. There are lots of interesting individual pieces of chess tables which are mostly made by hand from genuine woodworking and designed by experienced artisans who try to combine the classics with contemporariness. Sometimes they can include elements of detail that are mind-blowing such as carved board squares on the piece itself or even hand-carved compartments for storing the chess pieces.
Famous Unique Chess Tables
Some incredibly unique chess tables that have caught people’s attention throughout history include:
- The Amber Room Chess Table: This piece of furniture was originally a part of the world-famous Amber Room in the Catherine Palace near St. Petersburg; it was made of solid amber and gold. It has not been ascertained what became of it after the Second World War.
- The Fortress Chess Table: This table was developed by a modern artist Ara Alekian and looks like a medieval castle with towers that act as piece keepers.
- The Jaques Staunton Chess Table: This table was made in the mid-19th century by the company that manufactured the Staunton chess set. Finally, it has a themed and well-designed board as well as a pedestal base as compared to others.
- The Space Age Chess Table: Created in the 1960s by Victor Vasarely this piece was a true vision of the future that was manifested in the Space Age.
Collecting and Caring for Unique Chess Tables
Some considerations for individuals who wish to acquire rare chess tables are as follows:
● Authenticity:
If you are planning to buy a table that was created yesterday or has been created by artists, then make sure it is original. A further recommendation that I share often with collectors is to check the maker’s credentials and inquire about provenance when possible. ”
● Condition
Gently examine the table for any form of scratch or any other sort of usage on the table. Some are appealing in that they lend a special touch to a home, but structural problems should be dealt with.
● Functionality
As is seen, a lot of splendid chess tables can be considered as pieces of art, however, they should be functional to perform the primary purpose — chess tables are for chess. Make sure the ground is even and ensure that the doors, drawers, lockers, or shelves, if any are functional.
● Care and Maintenance
It is very true and can be understood by everyone that, different materials are used in the production of furniture and all of these materials need different treatment. Wood may look dull and may require polishing and must not be directly exposed to sunlight while on the other hand, stone may require sealing. The most important precaution that one must not forget is to always adhere to the maker’s recommended guidelines.
Conclusion
Design chess tables are unique and they are an exemplary synthesis of the art object and the practical item, game subject, and a piece of furniture. As a truly strategic game, chess appeals to and attracts serious chess players who are in search of the perfect centerpiece for their game room, artists who have a passion for the game, as well as other people who crave functionality of artwork in their chess table. These pieces not only enhance the general play of chess but also, are the art pieces that will arouse interest even in several years.
