The Lewis Chessmen

These chessmen are named after the Isle of Lewis where they were found hidden in 1832, but date back to the twelfth century, and were probably made in Norway. They're carved from walrus ivory and whale tooth. The animals were not killed for the purpose, but had most likely been long-dead when the ivory was harvested and carved.

Most of the find (that come from four distinct game sets) are housed in the British Museum. They're amazing figures - the queen looks thoroughly fed up, with her head in her hand; the king looks resigned. The rooks are little berserkers, biting on their shields in their frenzy.

Naturally, I've told my chessmen friends all about them in case they want to go and visit one day, as long as the beserkers don't give the pawns nightmares.