Years ago I had a deck of Russian prisoner-made playing cards, and this hand-carved wooden chess set keeps reminding me of those. I don't know if these were made in prison, but someone certainly had some time on their hands, and some carving skills too. (And patience!) Intricately carved on all sides, including the tops, with terrific definition and distinction among the various pieces and terrific red stars everywhere (which does add to their Soviet feeling.). The more one looks, the better these get--like a terrific collection of carved whimsies, whether one ever plays chess with them or not!
Kings measure 2 3/4" t x 3/4" wide and deep. Pawns 1 1/4" t x 5/8" x 5/8". There is one missing black pawn, and one black pawn with a chip on one side, as shown. Otherwise excellent condition, 31 pieces total. C. mid 20th century I would guess.
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