| Description: | Yemenite filigree work, Beautiful. Made of Silver - all pieces are stamped "Israel Silver 925" (possibly 800, in Hebrew). One side Gold plated and topped with small Rubies. The other natural silver topped with Turquoise stones from the dead sea. Knights in shape of horse s heads have small matching gemstone eyes and link chains-riders. 1950s possibly early 60s.
These sets were made in the 50s-60s by Yemenite Jews who immigrated to Israel in the early days of the country. The pieces are made using a silver thread that is looped and processed to build the chess set. They are embellished with tiny Ruby, Turquoise or similar gemstones for added charm and color and accentuating the horse s eyes. The horses are also equipped with tiny Reine. They were only available in high end tourists store (such as "Mas-kit") and not many made. The craft died with the people and was limited due to the extensive work and cost required to make even a single set. There are small variations but all are pretty much similar. Several years ago, there was an attempt to re-create such sets but be alert - they are made (in Brazil) using molded metal and not true filigree work.
Note: The photos are for two different sets of very similar design. The first 16 photos with green background are of a set with 3.5" King; The photos with blue background are of a set with 3" (with Turquoise stones both sides). |
