Antique Austro-Hungarian Silver Gilt Enamel Jeweled Chess Piece Medieval Knight c. 1900

A wonderful antique Austro-Hungarian silver-gilt and enamel figural chess piece, dating to approximately the late 19th to early 20th century.

This highly detailed medieval warrior or knight stands with spear and shield, wearing a vivid green enamel cloak. The figure rests upon an ornate pierced circular base accented with small red and white cabochon-style stones and decorative enamel work. The underside retains its original deep red velvet covering.

This individual chessman appears closely related to the elaborate Austro-Hungarian silver-gilt and enamel chess sets that have appeared at major international auction houses, including Christie's and Sotheby's. Complete sets of this type are extraordinarily elaborate, with individually modeled medieval figures representing the opposing sides.

A particularly appealing piece for a chess collector, collector of Austro-Hungarian decorative arts, or someone seeking a replacement chessman for an incomplete antique set.

Details:

Austro-Hungarian
Circa late 19th / early 20th century
Silver-gilt or silver-tone metal; metal content has not been independently tested
Green and white enamel decoration
Red and white cabochon-style accents
Medieval knight/warrior figure with spear and shield
Approximately 2 inches tall
Original red velvet-covered underside
Individual chess piece only; the complete chess set shown in the reference photograph is not included

Condition:
Very good antique condition with age-appropriate patina and minor wear. Please review all photographs closely, as they form an important part of the description. The piece has intentionally not been polished in order to preserve its aged surface and character.

A scarce and beautifully detailed survivor from what would originally have been an exceptionally elaborate luxury chess set.

*Complete examples have substantial auction histories:

Sotheby's New York, April 22, 2010, Lot 30 — $35,000
Christie's New York, April 18–19, 2012, Lot 427 — $32,500
Tajan, Paris, November 19, 2014, Lot 231 — €25,520
Other complete sets have been catalogued by Christie's and major dealers in the five-figure range.

Please note that the photo of the complete set is to show the set; this listing is for ONE PAWN ONLY.
The set is valued at approximately 20k, not in my possession.