Chess set used a great role model for its queen piece
THE Queen’s upcoming Platinum Jubilee inspired us to take a look back at how the last jubilee was marked in the chess world.
Chess set manufacturer Studio Anne Carlton, a Hullbased traditional games company, unveiled a very special set to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
The theme of the set, which is still available, is St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle – spiritual home of the Order of The Garter.
This is the highest order of chivalry in the land, having been by Edward III in 1348.
The Queen, as sovereign, is head of the order, which also includes he Prince of Wales and 24 Knights or Ladies of the Garter.
The set’s queen is, of course, Her Majesty, with Prince Philip appearing in the guise of the king. The bishop pieces represent the Dean of Windsor, with the knights being the Military Knights of Windsor.
The rooks take the unmistakable form of the round tower of Windsor Castle.
The pawns, meanwhile, are choristers of the choir of St George’s Chapel.
Holders of the title of Knight of the Garter have ranged from Sir Thomas Erpingham, who led the archers at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, to Sir Winston Churchill and Everest conqueror Sir Edmund Hillary.
The Duke of Cambridge was installed as the 1,000th Knight of the Garter in 2008.
Every June a special service of thanksgiving is held at St George’s Chapel attended by the monarch and Knights and
Ladies of the Garter.