The Miniature Roman Chessmen
by Studio Anne Carlton

The miniature set is a compact set that shows the elegance of the Roman era. The chessmen are made of an antiqued ground stone with the opposing side stained a rich burgundy brown.

The King portrays Julius Caesar, traditionally dressed in a toga, the distinctive costume which remained fashionable throughout the whole of the Roman period. Caesar had several wives, none of whom played a significant role in Roman history. The Queen, therefore, typifies a lady of noble birth in the dress of the period; the Cloak or Palla, with its multiple folds which resulted in its extravagant length. The head-dress is also traditional, originating and modified from the original Greek. The Bishop is represented by the Standard Bearer carrying the insignia of the legion. He wears a General's mantle over the coat of mail with its traditional bronze decorations. The Knight is a gallant soldier's horse and the pawns are fighting foot soldiers. The rook takes it form from the Roman capital. Chess board not included.