18th century  (Netherlands)

Netherlands. There is very little, if anything at all, known of Dutch chess set makers in the 18th century. The sets below are examples of the so called "Dutch" chess set, made from the 18th till early 19th century. It is believed that they were made in the Netherlands (or Flemings), but there is no actual proof. The last set from this series could very well be from Erbach in Germany, made early 19th century. Similar design, but with figural Kings en Queens, is known as well.

The 2 sets at right are a recent (September 2024) acquisition. Both sets have their original box and there is an old chess board with one side with 64 fields and the other with 100 fields. Such boards are known as Dutch as well.

The 1st set is very interesting because it has pieces for chess and disks for International draughts. There are 2x21 checkers, so there is 1 spare on each side. The lockable box and the board were always together in the family. Also interesting because ivory is less common as bone for these sets. Set, box and board are in pristine condition. One white Bishop's top replaced. 

The 2nd set and box, unfortunately, are rather damaged. Next to some chips, are black King, white Queen and 4 pawns broken. Most bits of pieces are present, except for a pawn finial and the top of a rook finial. See picture of all damaged pieces. But it is a nice set in a less common bone (Rook's bottoms are ivory!) and ebony combination. The finials on the rooks are unusual too.

The sets below are all without boxes or boards, although the 2nd bone one came with an antique chess board. The 2nd wooden one is a real beauty with wonderful Knights and is one one of my favourites.