Chessman

Description

Chessman of walrus tusk representing two knights back to back, from Skye, mid 13th century

Museum reference

H.NS 15

Object name

Chessman

Production information

Scotland, Northern Europe

Date

Mid 13th century

Materials

Walrus ivory

Physical description

Fairly good condition, portion of the top frieze broken off, leaf chipped off above figure with demi fleur-de-lis shield, large split below on base, split at lower edge on other side, splits in frieze, some discolouration; a plug apparently of resin and wood shavings has been inserted into the base to consolidate the piece.

Associations

Skye, Inverness-shire, Scotland, Northern Europe

Exhibitions

• Lewis Chessmen: Unmasked (21 May 2010 - 12 Sep 2011)
  National Museum of Scotland
  Aberdeen Art Gallery
  Shetland Museum and Archives
  Museum nan Eilean

• Angels, Nobles and Unicorns: Art and Patronage in Medieval Scotland (12 Aug 1982 - 26 Sep 1982)
  Royal Museum of Scotland

References

Glenn, Virginia, Romanesque & Gothic: Decorative Metalwork and Ivory Carvings in the Museum of Scotland, NMSE Publishing, Edinburgh, 2003

Caldwell, D.H. (ed). Angels Nobles and Unicorns: Art and Patronage in Medieval Scotland. Edinburgh: NMS, 1982

Links to other web pages

Canmore Site Record

On display

national museum of scotland »
level 1 »
scotland galleries »
kingdom of the scots »
monarchy and power