What are the best chess pieces (chessmen) of all time?

The best chess pieces, in terms of design and craftsmanship, often refer to historical and luxury sets known for their artistic and cultural significance. Here are some of the most renowned chess sets: 1. **Staunton Chess Set**: - **Designer**: Nathaniel Cook, endorsed by Howard Staunton. - **Year**: 1849. - **Features**: The Staunton design became the standard for tournament play due to its clear and practical design, making it easily recognizable and distinct. 2. **Isle of Lewis Chessmen**: - **Origin**: Discovered on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland. - **Date**: 12th century. - **Features**: Carved from walrus ivory, these pieces are notable for their intricate design and historical significance, reflecting the medieval Scandinavian influence. 3. **Regency Chess Set**: - **Origin**: France, early 19th century. - **Features**: Known for its elegant and elaborate design, often featuring hand-carved pieces with a classical aesthetic. 4. **Soviet Championship Set**: - **Era**: Mid-20th century. - **Features**: Known for its simplicity and functional design, this set was widely used in Soviet Union tournaments and is cherished by collectors for its historical value. 5. **Jaques of London**: - **Features**: Jaques of London, the company behind the Staunton design, continues to produce high-quality, hand-crafted chess sets, often sought after by enthusiasts for their craftsmanship and legacy. 6. **The Royal Diamond Chess Set**: - **Designer**: Charles Hollander. - **Year**: Early 2000s. - **Features**: One of the most expensive chess sets in the world, it features pieces adorned with diamonds, gold, and other precious materials, representing the pinnacle of luxury in chess set design. 7. **The Dubrovnik Chess Set**: - **Era**: 1950s. - **Features**: Made famous by Bobby Fischer, who considered it his favorite set, the Dubrovnik set is appreciated for its balance, craftsmanship, and playability. These sets are celebrated not just for their use in play, but also for their artistic value, historical significance, and the craftsmanship involved in their creation. read less