Nishapur #Chess

thingiverse

An ancient chess set, dated to the 12th century and discovered in Nishapur, Northeastern Iran, is now exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The set resembles modern-day versions but has unique pieces; viziers instead of queens and fils or elephants instead of bishops. These pieces moved differently and were less powerful than their contemporary counterparts, probably making the game slower and less exciting. Chess had already started to spread in Europe before this Persian set was made, with sets like the Lewis Chessmen containing modern-day queens and bishops. The Met's ancient chess set showcases a precursor to today's modern version of the game. This antique set can be viewed online or printed for admiration and playing by old or new rules.