John Calvert
England 1764 – England 1822
Chess craftsman active in London between the late 18th and early 19th centuries; in the same city, he served as master of the Worshipful Company of Turners. He introduced early design elements, including an identical pedestal for all pieces with an internal iron pin to provide greater stability. He created ivory chess sets for the wealthiest classes and sets in ebony or boxwood for chess clubs and cafés.
The weight of the pieces remains a feature that influences the choice of “purist” players. Reproductions of Calvert chess sets are sold according to weight: double, triple, etc. His activity, which began in 1791, was continued after his death by his wife Dorothy; the Calvert workshop produced chess sets until 1840. Even today, Calvert chess sets are collectible pieces made of wood, wax, or faux ivory.
Works on display:
- Saint George, chess set, wood, 1840
