Jaques Staunton Ivory Chess Set in Carton Pierre Casket, 3.5", ca. 1853
Jaques Staunton Ivory Chess Set in Carton Pierre Casket, 3.5", ca. 1853
The Holy Grail for every chess collector: a tournament sized ivory set in the Staunton pattern made by John Jaques around 1853 with a king size of 3.5" and a carton pierre casket with the red label numbered "3429". The pieces are in almost pristine condition. The white king carries the iconic "Jaques London" stamp underneath its base. One pawn still has one of the original lozenges, albeit a tad worn off. Rooks and knights with kingside stamping.
The name John Jaques should be familiar to anyone who prides himself on knowing something about chess. John Jaques is not a famous chess player. But he was the artisan who exclusively produced the original Staunton chessmen after their release in 1849 and probably had a significant influence on their design. Chess pieces by John Jaques are still among the most exclusive and sought-after today and are considered by many collectors to be the non plus ultra.