Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A striking modernist chess set featuring highly stylized, non-representational pieces housed in a custom-fitted wooden case. The design prioritizes geometric purity and verticality, stripping away traditional figurative details in favor of architectural forms.
Story
Post-war designers rebelled against the ornate Staunton standard. This set reflects the 20th-century obsession with abstraction, where a knight is defined by a curve rather than a horse's head. It turned a game into a sculpture.
Maker / Origin
While reminiscent of Josef Hartwig’s 1923 Bauhaus design, this set's elongated proportions suggest a later mid-century interpretation. It likely comes from a boutique workshop or a high-end gift manufacturer like those found in Italy or Scandinavia during the 1960s design boom.
Condition & Value
The set appears remarkably complete. There is minor surface wear to the wooden case and some light scuffing on the darker pieces. The presence of the original case significantly preserves the value. Value is driven by the completeness of the set and the unique fitted case.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.