This unique set by Man Ray transforms standard chess pieces into sleek geometrical shapes, discarding the conventional and figurative elements typically attributed to them. With his signature Dadaist style, Ray incorporates one unconventional form into the set- the head scroll of a violin, found in his studio. The set includes both the board and the chess pieces.

About

Born in 1890, Man Ray (aka Emmanuel Radnitzky) was an American visual artist who spent most of his career in France. Considered a pioneer of the Surrealist movement, he was best known for his photography but considered himself a painter above all. He was also known for his photograms – pictures made with photographic materials but without a camera – which he dubbed “rayographs.” His general love for art shines through in the Man Ray Chess Set (1920), with abstract geometric chess pieces designed by the man himself – the knight was inspired by a violin in his studio – and matching board later devised by a specialty game manufacturer. Pieces are CNC-milled from FSC-certified beech, then carefully finished by hand. The board, also in beech, is carefully crafted and finished to match the pieces. This is the authentic Man Ray Chess Set, produced under license with the Man Ray Trust. Made in Germany.

Dimensions

Board: L: 17” x W: 17” x H: 0.75”

Pieces: Bishop: H: 2.75” /

King & Queen: H: 3.25” /

Knight: H: 2” /

Rook and Pawn: H: 1.4”

Made in Germany