Indonesian chessmen
In Indonesia, with its vivacious crafts background, lots of different types of chessmen are made - from tournament chessmen to carved marvels in the tropical woods this country is so rich in. Apart form the ubiquitious Balinese chessmen - popular gift for every visitor to the blessed island - there are numerous local styles on the main islands of Java and Sumatra.
Javan pocket set
Very small set from Java, whose old box proclaims an age of 60 to 70 years. Delicately carved in teak, and some darker wood, the two sides are a bit difficult to distinguish colourwise! Kings stands 51 mm
Javan Figurative
Large hardwood figurines, turned and carved in one piece - representing seemingly prince Rama and spouse from the Hindu epic Ramayana. Kings stand 120 mm.
Javan crafts
Staunton style
Large pieces, which I thought to be from China at first - but the wood, the finish and the knight style point to Indonesia. King at 110 mm, not weighted - simple, robust, well balanced, and nicely varnished.
Balinese
Impeccably finished gargoyles, representing supposedly figures from the Ramayana epic - one can certainly make out the monley king, and various monsters. Hardwood, kings at 138 mm - a quite common souvenir from Bali, where these sets are made in workshops in standardized procedures. Usually sold in machine-carved folding boards with grips and legs! Very attractive to showcase.....spiky b......s to play with...
