Westminster Abbey Chessmen - Hand Decorated
by Studio Anne Carlton

very large and impressive set of chess pieces inspired by statues, tombs and artifacts in and around the famous Westminster Abbey in London. This set is meticulous in its hand-painted detail and is by far the largest Studio Anne Carlton set. Westminster Abbey is a large gothic church in central London.

Officially the Collegiate Church of St Peter, it was built between 1050 and 1745. Founded by the Saxon king Sebert in the early 7th Century on a marshy site, known as Thorney Island, the church was consecrated by Edward the Confessor in 1065. Rebuilding was commenced in 1245 by King Henry III and was completed in 1528. Westminster Abbey is renowned as one of the best examples of early English architecture. In particular Henry VIII's chantry chapel is remarkable for its pendant form vaulting. The famous west towers are by Hawksmoor and were completed in 1740. Most English sovereigns were crowned at Westminster Abbey and The Abbey is the final resting place of several English monarchs, notably Edward the Confessor, Henry III, Edward I, Henry VII, Elizabeth I, Charles II, William III and George II.

This is the inspiration behind this majestic set. The King, Edward the Confessor, is in early English coronation robes, whilst the Queen, St.Helen, is shown at her prayers. The Bishop, St. Dunstan, is symbolically casting out devils and the Knight is St George, Patron Saint of England, slaying the evil dragon. The West Face of the Abbey makes an excellent rook while St. Roch, patron saint for the poor, is a delightful pawn. Chess board not included