The Lewis Chess Set

These remarkable chess pieces were found in 1831 on the Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides. No exact account of the discovery remains, but they apparently came to light after the collapse of a sand-bank on the coast of the island revealed their hiding place to a passing islander. 93 pieces from the hoard are known today. They are all carved from walrus ivory and include a belt buckle and some plain draughtsmen as well as the 78 chessmen. They date from the mid to late 12th century, and the style of carving, especially the intricate interlocking animal and floral designs on the thrones of the seated figures, indicate that they are of Scandinavian workmanship; however, their exact origin is not certain and they may have been made in Britain by a craftsman skilled in this style of Viking art.