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Authentic Soviet Chess Set from the 1960s — Mordovian Design
A Soviet chess set from the 1960s, made within the system of Soviet corrective labor institutions in Mordovia. A manifesto of utilitarianism and minimalism.
The set represents a direct antithesis to the classical Staunton style. Its innovative, avant-garde silhouette deliberately rejects decorative elements and “bourgeois ornamentation” in favor of pure utilitarianism — an approach dictated both by ideology and by the necessity of meeting enormous public demand.
The pieces have a slender and elegant silhouette. Their broad, flat bases provide excellent stability, while the slender construction makes them exceptionally clear and legible on the board — the pieces “breathe” and do not obscure one another. Particular attention should be paid to the unusually rough and angular form of the Knight: exaggerated, if not to say naive.
The set carries a rich cultural and historical context, serving as a symbol of the distinctive Soviet chess tradition. The light pieces have a honey-amber tone with moderate, honest signs of age. The dark pieces have a deep charcoal-black color.
The complete set consists of 32 pieces. The original felt pads are preserved. The original wooden chessboard also serves as a storage case. It is in excellent condition, with only minor, barely noticeable changes to the lacquer finish and signs of use. The original clasp is preserved.
📏 Measurements:
Board: 30 × 30 cm (11.81\" × 11.81\")
♚ King: 7 cm (2.76\")
♛ Queen: 6 cm (2.36\")
♝ Bishop: 5 cm (1.97\")
♞ Knight: 5 cm (1.97\")
♜ Rook: 4 cm (1.57\")
♟ Pawn: 3.5 cm (1.38\")
An expressive object for a collection of Soviet history and a significant addition to any vintage collection. The set is exceptionally comfortable for practical play.
The photographs and video were taken in natural daylight, without the use of any filters, in order to present the object as objectively as possible.
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