HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Oct. 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Wood chess
pieces are intricate works of art. Frequently possessing historical
or cultural significance, players can purchase a set that speaks to
them. Chess manufacturer, The House of Staunton, shares insights
into the process of crafting the world's finest chessmen.
The process of designing exquisite chessmen begins with
engineered drawings and detailed sketches. Designs are refined
through an iterative process until each piece reflects its intended
vision and demonstrates exceptional quality and beauty.
Chessmen designs reflect a variety of motifs and cultural
influences. Pieces have reflected specific personalities, world
events, and themes. Since chess is a game of war, chessmen are
frequently designed to memorialize ideological battles and military
leaders such as the Moors vs. Christians, communism vs. capitalism,
the American Revolutionary War, the War of Northern Aggression, and
Napoleon vs. Wellington. Chessmen also reflect mythology, groups of
people and cultures, nature, and abstract ideas. Staunton chessmen
designs have reflected the Greek mythology (Greek vs. Roman Gods),
Celtic culture, animals, insects, Man
Ray, and more.
Once the design and engineering process is completed, the
quality of the chess set is assessed. Staunton chess sets are
measured by the fineness of their turnings and the craftsmanship of
the Knight. Chessmen turning is a labor intensive process that
requires an expert craftsman. Wood is spun quickly while the artist
brings an intricate design to life. Afterwards, each chess piece is
contoured, sanded, and further refined into its final shape until
it resembles what you see on your chessboard.
The Knight is the defining feature of the Staunton
design. The piece is based on the war horse pulling Selene's
chariot—a visage that is part of the Parthenon Frieze sculptures
expropriated by Thomas Bruce, the
7th Lord of Elgin. The sculptures were expropriated from
the East and West Pediments of the Temple of Parthenon, which sits
atop the Athenian Acropolis. The cornerstones of the Staunton
design were, and continue to be, a chessman's stability and
uniqueness, and the quality and artistry of the knight.
About The House of Staunton: The House of Staunton is an
American locally owned and operated small business. For over 27
years, they have manufactured the world's finest chess equipment.
They sell a wide variety of chess sets, chess boards and chess
boxes, and are the equipment provider for top chess tournaments
worldwide. Their chess sets are featured in numerous movies and
television shows as well as on book covers and in print ads.
Media Contact: Shawn P.
Sullivan, The House of Staunton, Inc., 256.858.8070,
shawn@houseofstaunton.com
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SOURCE The House of Staunton