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.

Today the Staunton chess pieces have established themselves as the legitimate set of choice from private player to the world champion.

Jaques is world renowned as purveyors of some of the finest handcrafted chess sets available. We are proud to present this beautiful original 1850 design 4.4 inch limited edition of 100 sets for your purchasing pleasure. Handmade from boxwood and jet black Ebony, and features the original Staunton design. The pieces are presented in a lovely mahogany case with cushions handmade from English leather and a lock. The perfect choice for serious players and those with an eye for the finer things in life. This heirloom-quality set with attention to detail that only Jaques’ master craftsmen are known for is signed by the company directors, who are the direct descendents of the creator of the Staunton Chess Set, John Jaques II.