Historicist-style Chess Set With Enamel. By Master A. König, Austria-hungary.

A rare, handcrafted chess set that forms a cohesive decorative ensemble, originating from early 20th-century Austro-Hungarian goldsmithing. The composition combines goldsmithing, enamel miniatures, and decorative sculpture to create a complete work of applied art. The base is designed as a solid wood box with a hinged lid that serves as the game board. The playing surface is inlaid with squares of gilded and burnished metal, creating a striking contrast and emphasizing the ceremonial character of the set.

The exterior of the box is richly adorned with repoussé silver mounts, embellished with a relief floral design. The ornamentation is enhanced by cabochon amethysts, pearls, small carved pylons with suspended chains, and enameled medallions in shades of turquoise and white. Enameled plaques featuring ancient iconography are integrated into the side panels, giving the box the character of a historic reliquary.

The chess pieces are made of partially gilded silver, decorated with hot enamel in shades of deep blue, light blue, and burgundy. The motifs evoke a medieval chivalric world: foot soldiers with shields, knights in armor, towers designed as fortifications, and kings and queens in richly enameled cloaks. Each piece is individually sculpted and adorned with amethysts and pearls, constituting a miniature work of art in its own right.

The interior of the case is lined with crimson velvet and features individual compartments for all 32 pieces. The set is entirely original and preserved in its historical configuration.

Hallmarks: Silver (hallmarks: STERLING, 925, HUNGARY, master A. König—AK in an oval with a crescent).
Dimensions: Tray 45 × 45 × 11 cm; pieces 5–9 cm.
Materials: Silver, enamel, partial gilding, wood, velvet, amethysts, pearls.
Weight: Pieces 2,648 g; tray 9,500 g; total 12,148 g.
Condition: Good collector’s condition. Slight wear on the enamel that does not affect the overall appearance. Complete set, well-preserved case.
Provenance: Private collection, Eastern Switzerland.

ID-ANTQ-15408