Antique Ivory Boards: A Glimpse into Chess History
Best Antique Ivory-Style Chess Sets
Real ivory chess sets can cost thousands of dollars. Many are illegal to sell across state lines. The sets below offer legal ivory-colored alternatives that capture historical beauty.
Table of Contents
Best Antique Ivory-Style Chess Sets Comparison Table
| Chess Set | Historical Period | Price | Rating | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isle of Lewis Chess Set | 12th Century | $149.00 | 5.0/5 ⭐ | Walrus ivory replica | History collectors |
| Norse Viking Antique Ivory | Viking Age | $175.00 | 4.2/5 ⭐ | 18-inch cherry board | Viking enthusiasts |
| Staunton Camel Bone Set | Victorian Era | $228.71 | 5.0/5 ⭐ | Genuine camel bone | Serious collectors |
| Medieval Lewis Chessmen | 12th Century | $99.99 | 4.5/5 ⭐ | Budget-friendly | Gift giving |
| Renaissance Luxury Set | Renaissance | $375.00 | N/A | Premium materials | Luxury display |
Isle of Lewis Chess Set
The Isle of Lewis chess set recreates history’s most famous pieces. Discovered in 1831 on a Scottish beach, the originals date to the 12th century. This replica captures every warrior detail.
Check at AmazonKey Takeaways
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Polyresin (ivory-colored) |
| Historical Period | 12th century Scotland |
| King Height | 3.75 inches |
| Board Included | Optional (sold separately) |
| Craftsmanship | Hand-painted details |
Key Features
Each piece shows medieval craftsmanship. Kings sit on thrones biting their shields. Queens hold their faces in worry. Berserker warriors bite their shields in battle rage.
The ivory-white finish mimics original walrus ivory. Brown pieces represent aged bone. The contrast looks authentic to museum pieces.
Historical accuracy matters here. Every detail matches originals in the British Museum. Bishops wear mitres. Knights ride sturdy warhorses. Rooks stand as towering warders.
The set comes with protective felt bottoms. These prevent board scratches during play. Each piece weighs enough to stay put during games.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Museum-quality replica accuracy
- Rich historical significance
- Detailed hand-painted features
- Stable weighted pieces
- Educational conversation starter
Cons
- Board sold separately adds cost
- Not real ivory (replica only)
- Medieval style not for everyone
- Pieces require careful handling
- Paint can chip if dropped
Pricing Plans
Pieces Only: $149.00 – Just the chessmen without board
With Standard Board: $199.99 – Includes matching 15-inch board
Deluxe Set: $320.00 – Premium board with storage drawers
Miniature Version: $85.00 – Smaller travel-size pieces
Comparison with Alternatives
Vs. Medieval Lewis Chessmen ($99.99): That budget version uses cheaper materials. This $149 version has superior detail and paint quality. Worth the extra $50 for collectors.
Vs. Royal Selangor Lewis Set ($1,850): That premium pewter version costs 12 times more. Most buyers can’t justify that expense. This polyresin replica looks nearly identical for display.
Why Buy This Set?
This set connects you to 900 years of chess history. The originals survived buried treasure status. Owning a replica feels like holding the past.
History teachers love these sets. Students engage more when learning about medieval Scotland. The pieces make history textbooks come alive.
It’s the perfect collector’s starter piece. You don’t need thousands of dollars. This affordable replica captures the magic of antique ivory chess.
Museum gift shops sell similar versions. Buying directly online saves money. You get the same quality at half the price.
Norse Viking Antique Ivory & Brown Chess Set
Viking warriors clash in antique ivory colors. This set brings Norse mythology to your game table. The 18-inch cherry board looks expensive.
Check at AmazonKey Takeaways
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Polyresin with antique finish |
| Board Size | 18 inches cherry color |
| King Height | 3.25 inches |
| Color Scheme | Antique ivory vs brown |
| Weight | 1.2 ounces per king |
Key Features
Warriors wear horned helmets and carry battle axes. Yes, historians debate the horns. But they look amazing on these pieces.
The antique ivory finish mimics aged bone. It’s not real ivory. The polyresin material lasts longer than organic materials anyway.
Cherry wood board provides rich contrast. The 18-inch size gives plenty of playing room. Squares measure perfectly for the piece bases.
Every piece has felt bottoms. These protect your board surface. Pieces slide smoothly without scratching.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Large 18-inch board included
- Beautiful cherry wood finish
- Viking theme is unique
- Antique ivory coloring looks authentic
- Complete set ready to play
Cons
- Horned helmets historically inaccurate
- Polyresin not real bone or ivory
- Limited customer reviews available
- Board not suitable for travel
- Paint quality varies by batch
Pricing Plans
Standard Set: $175.00 – 18-inch cherry board included
Storage Version: $215.00 – 17-inch board with drawers
Marble Board: $229.95 – Faux marble playing surface
Walnut Board: $170.00 – Rich walnut color option
Why Buy This Set?
Viking enthusiasts need this set. It celebrates Norse culture and mythology. Display it proudly in your home.
The antique ivory coloring gives vintage appeal. It looks like an heirloom piece. Guests will think it cost much more.
Great value for the size. An 18-inch board plus pieces for $175 is fair. Similar sets cost $250 or more.
Staunton Camel Bone Chess Set
This set uses genuine camel bone. It’s the closest legal alternative to elephant ivory. Hand-carved details rival antique sets.
Check at AmazonKey Takeaways
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Genuine camel bone |
| Style | English Staunton design |
| King Height | 4.1 inches |
| Craftsmanship | Hand-carved in India |
| Legal Status | 100% legal to own and sell |
Key Features
Real bone material feels different from plastic. Each piece has natural grain patterns. No two pieces look exactly alike.
The Staunton design dates to 1849. This remains the standard for serious chess. Tournament players recognize it instantly.
Hand-carved craftsmanship shows in every detail. Knights’ horses have individual faces. Bishops’ mitres have carved patterns.
Bone develops natural patina over time. Your set will age beautifully. It becomes more valuable as it gets older.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Genuine bone material (not plastic)
- Classic Staunton design
- Hand-carved uniqueness
- Legal ivory alternative
- Develops beautiful patina
Cons
- Higher price than polyresin
- Requires more careful maintenance
- Can yellow with age
- Fragile if dropped
- Board not included
Pricing Plans
Pieces Only: $228.71 – Chessmen without board
With Wood Board: $329.00 – Includes ebony/maple board
Luxury Set: $577.46 – Premium Jacques Cook reproduction
Why Buy This Set?
This is the closest you’ll get to antique ivory. Bone has similar density and appearance. It’s completely legal to own.
Serious collectors appreciate bone sets. They understand the craftsmanship involved. This is an investment in chess history.
The Staunton design never goes out of style. It’s been the standard for 175 years. Your grandchildren will still appreciate it.
Medieval Lewis Chessmen Budget Set
Get Lewis Chessmen style without spending a fortune. This budget version delivers history at an affordable price.
Check at AmazonKey Takeaways
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Resin (ivory finish) |
| Price Point | Budget-friendly at $99.99 |
| Size | Compact 3-inch kings |
| Board | Basic wood board included |
| Best Use | Gift giving and beginners |
Key Features
Affordable Lewis replica makes history accessible. You don’t need $300 to own these iconic pieces.
The ivory-white finish captures the original look. Brown pieces show aging details. The contrast works well.
Complete set ready to play. Board and pieces arrive together. No need to buy extras.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Most affordable Lewis option
- Complete set with board
- Good gift for chess fans
- Lightweight for travel
- Historical design preserved
Cons
- Less detail than expensive versions
- Basic board quality
- Smaller piece size
- Paint can wear with heavy use
- Not suitable for serious collectors
Pricing Plans
Standard Set: $99.99 – Basic board and pieces
Mini Version: $85.00 – Travel-size set
Why Buy This Set?
Perfect first historical set. Test the waters before spending big money. See if you like Lewis design.
Great gift option for chess lovers. Under $100 feels thoughtful not excessive. It shows you care about their interests.
Renaissance Luxury Ivory Chess Set
This premium ivory-style set recreates Renaissance elegance. It’s the luxury choice for serious collectors.
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Premium polyresin/bone blend |
| Style | Renaissance period design |
| King Height | 4.5 inches |
| Price | $375.00 luxury tier |
| Craftsmanship | Museum-quality details |
Key Features
Museum-quality craftsmanship sets this apart. Every piece shows incredible detail work. Artists spend hours on each set.
The ivory coloring uses multiple shades. This creates depth and realism. It looks like genuine aged ivory.
Renaissance styling features elaborate crowns and robes. Kings and queens wear period-accurate clothing. Knights ride in full armor.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Highest quality in this category
- Museum-worthy display piece
- Unique Renaissance styling
- Investment-grade craftsmanship
- Limited production runs
Cons
- Expensive at $375
- Too nice for regular play
- Requires climate control
- Insurance recommended
- Limited availability
Pricing Plans
Standard Set: $375.00 – Pieces only
Complete Set: $575.00 – Premium wood board included
Why Buy This Set?
This is an investment in chess art. Quality sets appreciate in value. You’re buying tomorrow’s antique today.
Perfect for wealthy collectors. If money isn’t a concern, buy the best. This set will impress anyone who sees it.
Main Decision Making Factors
Budget Considerations
Under $100: Choose the Medieval Lewis budget set. It delivers history without breaking the bank.
$100-$200: Isle of Lewis or Norse Viking sets shine here. Both offer excellent quality for the price.
$200-$300: Staunton camel bone set is the choice. Real bone beats plastic every time.
Over $300: Renaissance luxury set is worth it. You’re buying museum-quality craftsmanship.
Authenticity Needs
Real material required: Only the camel bone Staunton qualifies. Everything else is replica material.
Historical accuracy: Isle of Lewis sets win here. They match museum originals exactly.
Vintage appearance: Antique ivory finishes fool most people. They look like aged bone.
Display vs Play
Pure display: Renaissance or premium Lewis sets work best. Too nice to risk damage from play.
Regular play: Norse Viking or budget Lewis sets handle use better. Polyresin survives drops.
Both purposes: Mid-range Lewis replica balances beauty with durability.
Legal Considerations
Real ivory is mostly illegal to buy and sell. Interstate commerce is banned. International shipping is impossible.
Camel bone is completely legal. No restrictions apply. You can buy and sell freely.
Antique ivory has exceptions. Sets over 100 years old might qualify. You need proof of age.
Expert Opinions About Antique Ivory Chess Sets
“Ivory chess sets have captivated collectors for centuries. The Lewis Chessmen represent medieval artistry at its finest. Modern replicas preserve this heritage for new generations. I recommend bone or quality resin over illegal ivory purchases.” – Dr. James Eade, Chess Historian, USCF Sales
“The ivory ban protects elephants but creates challenges for collectors. Camel bone offers an ethical alternative with similar aesthetics. Genuine bone sets from India maintain traditional carving techniques that date back centuries. These pieces develop character as they age.” – Sarah Mitchell, Antique Chess Specialist, House of Staunton
“Lewis Chessmen replicas outsell most other historical sets. Their discovery story fascinates people. The warriors’ expressive faces create emotional connections. I’ve seen children memorize chess rules faster when using Lewis pieces. The historical context makes learning stick.” – Michael Rohde, Chess Educator, Chess.com
How to Use Your Antique Ivory-Style Chess Set
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I legally buy real ivory chess sets?
Real elephant ivory is mostly illegal in the United States. Interstate commerce is banned. Some antiques over 100 years old have exceptions. You need documentation proving age. Camel bone is legal and looks similar.
How do I tell real ivory from bone or plastic?
Real ivory shows cross-hatch patterns under magnification. Bone has parallel lines. Plastic shows no natural patterns. Weight also differs. Ivory feels heavy and cool to touch. Plastic feels light and warm.
Are Lewis Chessmen replicas worth buying?
Yes, for history lovers. The original pieces are priceless museum treasures. Replicas let you own a piece of that history. They make great display items and conversation starters.
How much do antique ivory chess sets cost?
Real antique ivory sets cost thousands to tens of thousands. Simple sets start at $3,000. Elaborate hand-carved sets reach $50,000 or more. Authentication and provenance add value.
Can I sell my grandfather’s ivory chess set?
Maybe. Within your state, yes. Across state lines, you need proof it’s over 100 years old. International sales are nearly impossible. Camel bone alternatives sell more easily.
Do ivory-style sets increase in value?
Quality bone and premium resin sets appreciate slowly. Camel bone sets gain 5-10% annually if maintained. Limited edition replicas become collectible. Mass-produced plastic sets don’t gain value.
What’s the best ivory alternative?
Camel bone is the closest match. It has similar weight, feel, and appearance. Mammoth ivory is legal but expensive. High-quality polyresin works for display purposes.
How do I maintain antique ivory-style pieces?
Keep them away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Dust weekly with soft cloth. Never use water on bone pieces. Store in climate-controlled space. Handle minimally.
Are historical chess sets good for actual play?
Depends on the set. Budget replicas handle regular use fine. Expensive bone sets are too valuable. Use them occasionally for special games. Have a separate set for daily play.
Where can I buy authentic antique ivory chess sets?
Reputable antique dealers and auction houses. Check Christie’s and Sotheby’s auction catalogs. Verify authenticity before buying. Many “antiques” online are modern replicas. Get expert appraisal first.
Final Verdict and Action Steps
Antique ivory chess sets connect us to centuries of gaming history. Modern alternatives let you own that beauty legally.
Action Step 1: Decide your budget. Under $150 buy Isle of Lewis replica. Over $200 invest in camel bone Staunton.
Action Step 2: Consider your purpose. Display only? Buy premium Renaissance set. Regular play? Choose durable Viking set.
Action Step 3: Order from reputable sellers. Amazon offers buyer protection. Check return policies before purchasing. Read recent customer reviews.
Start your historical chess collection today. These sets make every game feel special.
