Chess and Backgammon Set with Knotwork Border

Chess and Backgammon Set with Knotwork Border — Handmade in Armenia

A knotwork band runs round the chessboard of this chess and backgammon set, between two beaded lines, on a wavy-edged board with backgammon inside. It is 50 × 50 cm / 19.6″ × 19.6″, handmade in Armenia from beech and stained walnut brown, with 32 wooden chess pieces, 32 checkers, a dice set and a carrying bag.

This is the wooden chess set for a proper table — the full size, with squares big enough for a long endgame. The interlace is cut in relief the whole way round, with a small textured block at each corner where the bands meet, and the coordinates are carved in the flat band beside the squares. The edge is shaped in soft curves that give the board its outline.

Open the bronze clasps and the backgammon board inside has a round eternity whirl carved at the centre of each half and pale points running to the bar. The 32 chess pieces are turned in light and dark wood; checkers and dice pack in the bag with them. For the house where the board stays on the table between games.

Specifications

• Size: 50 × 50 cm / 19.6″ × 19.6″
• Material: beech wood, stained walnut brown and varnished
• Carving: knotwork band in relief between beaded lines, textured corner blocks, carved coordinates, scalloped edge; eternity whirls and pale points inside
• Pieces: 32 wooden chess pieces in light and dark wood, 32 wooden backgammon checkers, dice set
• Hardware: bronze hinges and clasps
• Craftsmanship: handmade in Armenia

What's Included

• Folding board — chess outside, backgammon inside
• 32 wooden chess pieces in light and dark wood
• 32 wooden backgammon checkers
• Dice set
• Carrying bag

Why You'll Love It

• Two games, full size: a chessboard you can play a serious game on, and a nardi field the same size inside.
• Knotwork in relief: the interlace is carved, not burnt on — run a thumb along the band and you feel every crossing.
• A frame that suits any room: no emblem, no flag, just pattern — it goes with the oak table and the glass one.

Good to Know Before You Buy

Is the carving real? Yes. The knotwork, the beaded lines and the corner blocks are carved into the beech in relief, and the whirls and points inside are cut and left pale against the stain. Nothing is printed.

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? Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from radiators. Wipe with a dry, soft cloth and store it closed in its bag.

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