A FATIMID ROCK CRYSTAL CHESS PIECE, LATE 9TH-EARLY 10TH CENTURY A FATIMID ROCK CRYSTAL CHESS PIECE, LATE 9TH-EARLY 10TH CENTURY A FATIMID ROCK CRYSTAL CHESS PIECE, LATE 9TH-EARLY 10TH CENTURY A FATIMID ROCK CRYSTAL CHESS PIECE, LATE 9TH-EARLY 10TH CENTURY A FATIMID ROCK CRYSTAL CHESS PIECE, LATE 9TH-EARLY 10TH CENTURY

A FATIMID ROCK CRYSTAL CHESS PIECE, LATE 9TH-EARLY 10TH CENTURY

Reference: ART4001275

This piece of rock crystal is carved as a chess piece, probably a king. In the Middle East the king originally showed the monarch riding on an elephant in full state. However, the shape soon became highly stylised, and its main distinguishing feature is its lack of symmetry front and back. This piece has a low, plain, recessed oval base. The main body has a rounded top and has been carved as three separate elements. h 3 cm