Pine, Bamboo, and Plum Porcelain Half Chess Set

Chess has been around for over 500 years (in the form we know it today and for another 700 years before that in different versions), so has naturally become part of our collective consciousness: even people who don't play recognize the pieces and use the word "chess" as a metaphor for strategy. Despite having its own version, shogi, Japan also values chess and its artisans often use it as an inspiration. The Pine, Bamboo, and Plum Porcelain Half Chess Set is one such exquisite example!

The Pine, Bamboo, and Plum Porcelain Half Chess Set is a unique combination of techniques: durable porcelain developed by Saga Ceramics Research Laboratory in Arita, Saga Prefecture, meets traditional Ko-Imari porcelain styling, also from the same area, in a 16-piece set of decorative chess pieces that will become the focus in any space you put them in. Their basic color is white with fine patterns of pine, bamboo, and plum, a classical symbol of quality in Japan, and their sizes vary from 8.5 cm (3.3") for the king to 4.3 cm (1.7") for the pawns.

Specs and Features:

• 16 pieces (half a chess set)
• Color: white
• Made in traditional Ko-Imari porcelain style
• Height (king): 8.5 cm (3.3")
• Height (queen): 8 cm (3.1")
• Height (bishop): 6.5 cm (2.6")
• Height (knight): 6 cm (2.4")
• Height (rook): 5 cm (2")
• Height (pawn): 4.3 cm (1.7")
• Material: strong porcelain developed by Saga Ceramics Research Laboratory