Armenian Knotwork Border Backgammon Set with Interlace Roundel

Armenian Knotwork Border Backgammon Set with Interlace Roundel — Handmade in Armenia

A plaited band of knotwork runs right round the edge of this carved Armenian backgammon set, palmettes fan out of the four corners, and a roundel of interlaced vines closes on a pinwheel flower at the centre of a plain stepped panel, the same on both outer faces. Pale walnut, 60 × 60 cm / 23.6″ × 23.6″ open, 30 × 60 cm / 11.8″ × 23.6″ closed, handmade in Armenia.

Where most carved boards fill every inch, this wooden backgammon board leaves the panel around the roundel smooth, so the knotwork border and the vine interlace read all the sharper against the bare grain. Inside, the pale field carries palmette-tipped lattice points, a broad disc of floral bands in each half and a scroll border, all incised into the wood, with carved scalloped rails and a long recess in each corner for the dice.

Wooden checkers in two colours and a pair of dice make up the set; the lid closes on brass hinges with a clasp at either side.

Specifications

• Size open: 60 × 60 cm / 23.6″ × 23.6″
• Size folded: 60 × 30 cm / 23.6″ × 11.8″
• Material: pale walnut wood, brass hinges and clasps
• Carving: plaited knotwork border, corner palmettes and a roundel of interlaced vines round a flower boss on a smooth stepped panel, both outer faces alike; incised palmette-tipped points and floral discs inside
• Checkers: 32 wooden checkers, dark and pale; dice
• Hardware: brass hinges and two side clasps
• Craftsmanship: handmade in Armenia

What's Included

• Folding walnut backgammon board
• 32 wooden checkers, dark and pale
• Dice

Why You'll Love It

• Room to breathe: a smooth panel lets the knotwork border and roundel stand out.
• Armenian line-work: plaited border, corner palmettes and vine interlace in the stone-carving manner.
• Same on both faces: lid and base carry the full design.

Good to Know Before You Buy

Is the carving real? Yes — the knotwork border is plaited in relief, the vines of the roundel pass over and under one another and the palmettes are cut over a stippled ground; the smooth panel between them is planed wood. The points and discs inside are incised lines, not print.

What about shipping and returns? Shipping is free worldwide and tracked. Every set is covered by our 30-day returns policy.

How do I look after it? Dust the carving with a soft brush and wipe the flat wood with a dry cloth. Keep the board out of direct sun and store it closed with the checkers inside.

Also known as nardi (нарды), nardy, tavla or shesh besh.