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The Figure Game "The Original Game of Chess" Set in Bronze by Gary Sahl Rare
About the Item
One of a kind! The Figure Game (Siang Ki in Chinese), "The Original Game of Chess as Played in Antiquity" set in bronze by Gary Sahl for the Riggs Gallery in La Jolla, California, circa 1989.
"The Figure Game is an intriguing game whose roots go back to the earliest writings of mankind. The forerunner of modern chess, any player will learn the rules easily and quickly. Mastering, however, will take a little longer" -- Gary Sahl
The set is simply exquisite! The bronze pieces were cast in the "Lost Wax Process" following 32 handcrafted steps at the famous Monterey Sculpture Center under the direction of Charles Lawrence Fischer. Because these art pieces are hand made, each one has its own individual characteristics and patina. Each piece is numbered and signed by the artist on the underside. There are two boxes, each containing sixteen pieces ranging in height from 2" to 5.25". The pieces are housed in gorgeous handmade dove tailed rosewood boxes (16"W x 11.5"D x 3.5"H) with padded suede lining. The boxes as well as the pieces are individual works of art!
Also included with the set is a large leather pelt board, a bound rule / instruction book, a certificate of authorization designating this set as #1 of an edition of 300, the original receipt and price tag from Riggs Gallery showing the set was purchased for $5,000 in 1989, a VHS tape and an article entitled "the Figure Game" that explains in detail the origin of the game. Please read the article to get a feel as to how unique and special this set is.
The set is numbered 1 of 300 and is what I beleive to be the only one in existence. The set was mosst likely a prototype of what was intended to be an edition of 300 and for whatever reason, the rest of the series was not produced. I have not been able to find any other sets like this online.
This gorgeous game is a work of art and will be treasured for years to come! #1951.
- Dimensions:Height: 3.5 in (8.89 cm)Width: 16 in (40.64 cm)Depth: 11.5 in (29.21 cm)
- Style:Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1989
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:San Diego, CA
- Reference Number:
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: San Diego, CA
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