European Sculpture and Decorative ArtsChess Sets18th centuryChessmen is a chess sets of Indian origin created in 18th century using ivory measuring King, each: H. 2 in. (5.1 cm.); Pawn, each: H. 1 1/8 in… — now part of the European Sculpture and Decorative Arts collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Ivory |
| Dimensions | King, each: H. 2 in. (5.1 cm.); Pawn, each: H. 1 1/8 in. (2.9 cm.) (Only the tallest and shortest examples of chessmen measured for basic record.) |
| Classification | Chess Sets |
| Department | European Sculpture and Decorative Arts |
| Credit Line | Gift of Gustavus A. Pfeiffer, 1948 |
| Date | 18th century |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Indian culture. The estimated date range is 1700 – 1799.
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Chessmen?
Chessmen is housed in the European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Chessmen created?
Chessmen dates to 18th century.
What material is Chessmen made from?
Chessmen is crafted from ivory.
Is Chessmen in the public domain?
Chessmen is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026