Lewis Chessmen Unmasked

Abstract

• The humorous and intricately designed hoard of Lewis Chessmen is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries ever made in Scotland. The Lewis Chessmen were found hidden on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, in the early nineteenth century. It of seated consisted kings and queens, mitred bishops, knights on their mounts, standing warders and pawns carved of walrus ivory. The pieces are now divided between National Museums Scotland and the British Museum. Experts all agree that the Lewis Chessmen are medieval and of Scandinavian origin. This exhibition book looks at the discovery of the hoard, and the traditions that have grown up around it. It also includes recent research by the authors focusing on how, where and when the Chessmen were made, and who might have owned them - and lost- them.