Beyond Origins the Discussion

Understanding Chess on a Staunton Chess Set

September 4th, 2008

Chess is a two player competitive game. The game is played on a square chess board, which has 64 squares in a eight by eight formation. Each person playing the game has sixteen pieces: a king, a queen, two knights, two rooks, two bishops, and eight pawns.

Watch the moves you make on chess boards

The object of the game is to “check-mate” the other player’s king. Each chess piece has rules about when and where they can move within the chessboard, which adds a level of intrigue and difficulty to the game.

Chessmen are normally carved from wood, but can be also generated from ivory or stone. Form and function combine to make an unreal hand-carved chess set a beautiful addition to any collection or home display.

One of the biggest items that can be purchased on auction sites today are vintage staunton chess sets. They make a great collector’s item because of the intricate artwork and carving that craftsmen incorporate for each of the individual chess pieces.

Every game of chess is like a story. A pawn sneaks towards “no man’s land” and views another pawn. A knight jumps to protect the pawn and a bishop righteously slides out to make sure there are no unforeseen problems.

Every piece of the chess set has a way of moving and is part of the story–all the way to when the king gets cut down. When you play chess, you get to see the narrative unfold.

You guess what will happen next and sometimes you are correct. Sometimes you don’t see that sneaky rook as it makes off with your queen. Ouch! that hurts!! If you enjoy stories, you’ll enjoy playing chess and making up your own stories.

To a lot, chess is far more than a game. Chess is a philosophy, a logic puzzle, and an art all at once. For some, electronic chess is the perfect way to match wits with themselves, a partner, or a computer. Myself if I’m on the road I prefer some type of travel chess set compared to an electronic version.

For some, though, the tactile part of real chess sets is an integral part of the experience. Not only that, but many things of interactive play in person are lost if the chess is electronic. The interaction with a flesh and blood opponent is for some the most critical part of the experience.

Entry Filed under: Recreation & Sports