Decorative Chess Set Appraisal

Glass Chess Set in Wooden Box

This item is a complete boxed set of glass chess pieces. The pieces are housed within a wooden case with a hinged lid, featuring a reddish-brown felt interior molded to custom fit each individual piece, ensuring secure storage and protection. The box itself appears to be made from a light-colored wood, possibly pine or a similar timber, with visible grain. The top surface of the case's lid is partially visible and suggests either an inlaid panel or a decorative print, possibly floral given the faint green and red hues observed. The chess pieces are crafted from clear glass, with a distinct feature being the two differing finishes: one set is entirely clear, exhibiting high transparency and a reflective surface, while the opposing set features a frosted or etched finish, giving them a translucent, matte appearance. This contrast allows for easy differentiation between the two sides during play. Each piece, from the king to the pawns, is identifiable by its traditional chess design. Specifically, the clear set includes identifiable rooks, knights (one of which has tipped over in the image, showing its rounded base), bishops, a queen, and a king, along with eight pawns. The frosted set also includes these corresponding pieces, though only the pawns and the back rank pieces for one side are clearly visible, with the remaining pieces still nestled in their compartments. One of the clear knights appears to have broken off its base or to be leaning significantly, indicating a potential condition issue. The overall condition of the set appears good, with the wood box showing minor wear consistent with handling. There are no visible manufacturer's marks or signatures on the pieces or the box. Given the style and materials, this set likely dates from the late 20th century to early 21st century. The craftsmanship is decent, with pieces showing good definition and uniformity in design, although the fragility of glass suggests careful handling is required. The brass hinges on the wooden box are visible, adding a touch of classic detail.