Chess has been a favorite game of strategy and tactics since ancient times. Many notable characters in history have played the game of chess. For centuries chess pieces were of two extremes, either rudely turned or excessively elaborate. But in the early 1840's that all changed. Jaques of London, who had always been instrumental in the development and success of chess, were approached by Nathaniel Cooke, proprietor of the Illustrated London News, with a new and elegant design for chessmen. With the fine craftsmanship of John Jaques the initial design by Mr. Cooke, was polished, to produce a chess set that used symbols. The king had a crown. The bishop, a mitre. This made the pieces easily recognizable and much easier to reproduce. The press said the new design was a work of art, combining elegance and solidity. Of particular interest was the Knight, which was based on sculptures from the famous Elgin Marbles. British Chess World Champion, Mr Howard Staunton, was so struck by the clarification of the design that he allowed his name and signature to adorn every box of pieces made to this design. Few companies can say they influenced the development of a game the way Jaques of London has shaped the world's most famous and favorite board game.

Jaques 1853 Edition 4" reproduction Chess Set, comes in a solid Mahogany case with brass fittings and a baize lining. This faithful reproduction is a worthy purchase for a piece of chess history!