A fine vintage hand carved wooden chess set including original hand made board. Probably mid century (1950's 60's) from East Africa. Board measures 32 cms (12.5 ins) square. Sets like this were produced in Ghana, Nigeria, and occasionally Kenya for export and tourist trade. Solid carved hardwood, two tones achieved either by using different woods or staining. Each piece represents local figures — chiefs, villagers, and huts. The bishops holding crosses and the huts as rooks are typical of Ghanaian sets influenced by missionary imagery. Simple hand-made wooden board with black-painted edge, not factory-made, consistent with artisan workshop production.
