Russian Backgammon Set - Coat of Arms and Grapevines

Russian Backgammon Set - Coat of Arms and Grapevines

An imperial eagle wrapped in grapevines is not a combination you see often, and it works better than it has any right to. On this handmade Russian backgammon set the double-headed eagle is carved in pale relief at the centre of the lid, both heads turned outward, and around it the carver has run a full wreath of vines and grape clusters — the hardest emblem in Europe softened by the friendliest border in the workshop's repertoire.

There is a logic to it, of course. The eagle belongs to the state; the vine belongs to the table, and nardy has always been a table game rather than a state occasion — played in kitchens, on balconies, in courtyards, with something poured alongside it. Open the clasps, let the bronze hinges swing back, and the full 23.6" / 60 cm playing field says which of the two this board really serves. Carry it in by the cut-out handle and let the eagle preside over an evening that has no intention of being formal.

What's Included

• Backgammon board with bronze hinges, clasps and a cut-out carry handle
• 32 checkers made from beech and walnut wood
• A pair of dice and a carrying bag

Specifications

• Folded: 30 x 60 cm / 11.8 x 23.6"
• Open playing field: 60 x 60 cm / 23.6 x 23.6"
• Weight: 5 kg / 11 lb
• Wood: solid beech, with bronze hinges and clasps
• Entirely handmade

Why It Stands Out

• The Russian double-headed eagle carved by hand in pale relief
• A full wreath of carved grapevines and grape clusters running around it
• Folds shut on bronze hinges and travels by its own cut-out carry handle
• A handmade Russian backgammon board that pairs a state emblem with a table one

A Gift For a Long Evening

For the house where the board comes out after dinner and stays out. The eagle looks serious enough to impress anyone who visits; the vines are a fair warning about how the night is actually going to go.