The Craftmanship

It is widely considered that Wilhelm Steinitz is the father of modern chess, being the first world champion. Yet, the origins of the game date back way before the 1800s chess master’s debut. It is believed that chess was founded in India during the sixth century, where it was known as chaturanga at the time. Although the rules have changed slightly since, the concept remains very similar with only a few key differences. The game spread to Persia in the tenth or eleventh century, then to the Middle East. From here, it went global, reaching the likes of southern Europe and Southeast Asia, outwards and onwards. It became very popular in Europe during medieval times when the game changed slightly with characters to reflect the historical monarchy. The name of the game changed depending on the region, but it’s now universally known as chess. For centuries, chess was played by royals, intellectuals and scientists, looking to elevate creativity and work the brain. It continues to provide these mindful benefits, helping to boost intelligence and make one think outside the box. Thus, this time-honoured game is played everywhere. It’s found among mahogany bookshelves, around whisky decanters and cigar cabinets. It’s found in sophisticated bar lounges, where discerning drinkers come to meet and play. And now, The Grandmaster title is in your hands.

It’s all in the details. Celebrating the game’s historical significance, The Grandmaster is handcrafted by local craftsmen in India using mango wood and carved aluminium with plated nickel. Mango wood is native to India and was chosen for the making of this chessboard, as it coincides and pays tribute to the birthplace of the game, where origins date back hundreds of years. Its durable properties make it a desirable and beneficial material for longstanding structures, like The Grandmaster. The local craftsmen who made this centrepiece have been using mango wood for over 25 years, hence the trusted commitment to quality. Each chess piece in the set is handmade and intricately carved by the experts, following years of practice in this art. The Grandmaster is designed to stand the test of time and be passed down for generations, hence its superior outlook. Simple and elegant, it will wear well amid its polished surroundings. Challenge your opponent to a game, so you can explore patience, strategy and confidence in a sleek setting. It’s a timeless piece for the sophisticated player.