A rare handcrafted chess set forming a unified decorative ensemble of Austro-Hungarian metalwork from the early 20th century. The composition blends silversmithing, enamel miniature and sculptural decoration into a complete object of fine applied arts. The base is designed as a substantial wooden case with a hinged lid that functions as the chessboard. The playing field is inlaid with alternating squares of gilt and darkened metal, creating a striking contrast and reinforcing the ceremonial character of the piece.
The case exterior is richly adorned with intricate silver mounts executed in relief, featuring a scrolling vegetal ornament. The decoration is further enhanced with cabochon amethysts, pearls, miniature sculptural posts with hanging chains, and enamel medallions in turquoise and white tones. Additional enamel plaques with classical-themed imagery are set into the side panels, giving the piece the character of a historic ceremonial reliquary.
The chess pieces are crafted in silver with partial gilding, embellished with hot enamel in deep blue, light blue and burgundy colours. The iconography evokes a medieval knightly setting: foot soldiers with shields, armoured knights with swords, towers designed as fortifications, and kings and queens in richly enamelled cloaks. Each piece is individually modelled, decorated with amethysts and pearls, and stands as a miniature artwork in its own right.
The interior of the case is lined with crimson velvet and fitted with individual compartments for each of the 32 pieces. The set is entirely original and preserved in its historic configuration.
Marks: Silver (marks: STERLING, 925, HUNGARY, master A. König - AK in an oval with crescent).
Dimensions: Board 45 × 45 × 11 cm; pieces 5–9 cm.
Material: Silver, hot enamel, partial gilding, wood, velvet, amethysts, pearls.
Weight: Pieces 2648 g; board 9500 g; total 12148 g.
Condition: Good collectors condition. Minor enamel wear on a few bases does not affect overall appearance. Original assembly, complete set, case well preserved.
Provenance: Private collection, Eastern Switzerland.
n the early 20th century, Austria-Hungary experienced a significant revival of interest in decorative arts, where historical styles merged with new artistic trends and advanced jewellery techniques. Budapest became a major centre for the production of high-quality silverwork, with private workshops creating ceremonial objects for the European aristocracy and affluent bourgeoisie. During this period, chess sets gained particular popularity as symbols of intellectual prestige and as refined elements of interior decoration.
The workshop of A. König ranks among the notable Budapest ateliers of the early 20th century. Its creations are characterised by the use of vivid hot enamel, contrasts of silver and gilding, richly coloured decorative inserts and meticulous modelling. Items were produced in small series, often on commission, and intended for export to Germany, Switzerland, France and the United Kingdom. Particularly sought-after were objects in the Neo-Renaissance and Historicist styles, blending elements of medieval chivalric culture, heraldic motifs and romanticised antiquity.
Chess sets of this calibre belong to the category of table ornaments - luxurious ensembles uniting artistic expression and functional design. They served both as instruments of leisure and as decorative centrepieces reflecting the taste and status of the owner. The use of different silver standards, hot enamel, amethysts and pearls reflects the highest achievements of Austro-Hungarian craftsmanship at the time.
Today such ensembles are considered exceptionally rare examples of early 20th-century decorative arts. Full original sets with intact enamel and authenticated with the mark of A. König are highly valued for their artistic, cultural and collectible significance.
Overall good condition. Minor age wear and small enamel rubs on several pieces do not affect visual integrity. Silver elements free of deformation, case retains its original lining, complete set preserved.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
