Lot 20: AN ISLAMIC CARVED ROCK CRYSTAL KNIGHT CHESS PIECE, POSSIBLY FATIMID PERIOD.
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An Islamic style carved rock crystal chess piece, modelled in the form of a horse’s head to represent a knight. The piece is hand-carved from a single block of natural rock crystal, exhibiting a slight smoky or yellowish tint. The head is stylised with a characteristic strongly arched neck and an upright mane rendered through deeply incised parallel grooves. The facial features include pricked ears, almond-shaped eyes, and a rounded muzzle with indicated nostrils. The base is flat with rounded edges to allow for movement on a game board.
H: Approximately 5.6cm
Condition report:
The figure shows signs of age and handling. There are small chips to the tips of the ears and around the lower perimeter of the base. The surface of the stone exhibits light pitting and scattered abrasions. Internal natural inclusions, fractures, and clouding are present within the rock crystal, consistent with the material.
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