Jaque mate: el ajedrez: historia e iconografía de una pasión

by Gareth Williams, Carlos del Valle (Translator)

Through the ages, chess has served as more than a simple recreational diversion, but as a game of strategy, rich in metaphor and symbolism. But its meaning resides as much in the structure of the game -- the roles and abilities of the pieces and their relationship to one another and the board -- as in its playing. Moreover, it is not simply the strategy in chess that thrills players. Lovers of chess and its challenges are equally enthralled by the individual chess pieces that comprise the set. Now, for the first time in a popular, illustrated format is an exhaustive examination of the pieces that make up the chess set. Master Pieces: "The Architecture of Chess" studies the historical development, miniature artistry, and design of chess pieces. The book considers the function and role of each piece, the symbolism hidden in its design, and the influence of war, as well as architecture, on its iconography. The evolution of chess design is featured prominently, including the development of the familiar Staunton set. Written by collector and chess expert Gareth Williams, and fully illustrated with examples of some of the most beautiful and famous chess sets from all over the world, Master Pieces is the ideal gift for chess players everywhere.

Genres: Chess, Nonfiction, Art, History, Games

158 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Emmalyn Renato · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a small glossy book that has numerous images of various chess sets through the ages, with their history and several anecdotes. If you really like chess, you will probably like this book.

[Tom Schulte · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautiful, special little book. It two layers of dust jacket with the outer most translucent. Inside, the thick, glossy pages are an excellent medium for the frequent full-color images generally of exotic, rare, and detailed chess sets. The books touches on the history of human migrations, military technology, cultural exchange seen in the evolution of pieces in their style and usage. A real treat for anyone with appreciation of the art of chess. Chapters cover ecumenes, and eras.

[Hal · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought this book would expand on dimensions and creation of chess designs. It turned out to be only a history of the pieces and the game. That being said, it was concise and informative for those interested in the game.

[Kevin de Ataíde · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pocket sized, glossy paged, colourful gift to the chess enthusiast. Goes through several antique and modern chess sets. Beautiful has been the development of this great game and much has it contributed to art.

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

history of chess and some amazing pictures of sets, ooooh yeah.

[Curtiss · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful look at "the Architecture of chess" as the designs of chess pieces have evolved throughout the world.

[Victor Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love chess, you need to get this book.