Rare Chinese chess set for collectors
4/23/2010 – A splendid ivory chess set, carved around 1900, is up for sale in Los Angeles, California. The pieces are in the form of Chinese classical figures, with the Emperor and Empress seated on thrones and measuring over seven inches in height. The current owner, Elizabeth Krauss, is searching for a dealer, auction, or collector that would be interested in purchasing the set.
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Rare Chinese chess set for collectors
The set was once owned by a prominent Los Angeles family. During an estate sale, the Moos family acquired it and has cared for it since 1982.
The set includes 32 pieces of Peking carved ivory chess figures in the form of Chinese classical figures, with the major pieces being a seated – Emperor and Empress on thrones measuring approx. 7 3/4" and 7 1/4" respectively.
All the pawns have seated figures on different animals. The large chess box is also the playing board and has a custom made table frame that it fits into, to form a playing table, about 3' x 3' in size.
Elizabeth Krauss writes: "The set is of rare quality, estimated to be circa 1900. It is truly one of a kind. I have been searching for a dealer, auction, or collector that would be interested in purchasing the set. Perhaps it is something that could be announced on your site? Also, I wanted your opinion about its value? I've heard that it is worth anywhere from $28,000 to $65,000. Any information or advice would be much appreciated!"
Here are some more detailled snapshots of the ivory Chinese chess set.
You will notice that in these last two figures, there is a delicate flag piece that has broken off and would need to be reattached. Otherwise the set is in mint condition.
Any interested parties are welcome to email Randal Moos at randalmoos@aws-h2o.com. Randal and/or Elizabeth will reply immediately and would be happy to share more information about this wonderful chess set with any inquiring minds.
