indian-export-chess-set-vizagapatam-19th-century

Good Indian Export set in an attractive oak presentation case.

During the British Raj chess sets were produced in Vizagapatam and Berhampur for export to Britain, the British Colonies, American and Europe. Sets were often made to special order. Bishops are often represented by flaming mitres. The green stain is typical of Indian chess sets of the 19th century. It’s quite possible that the indian carvers bleached the ivory before sale. This would explain why indian ivory chess sets tend to have a whiter (ie less yellowed) finish.