An Exceptionally Large and Fine Vintage Philippine Igorot 'Ifugao' Tribal Chess Set, Circa 1960s/1970s

Name: An Exceptionally Large and Fine Vintage Philippine Igorot 'Ifugao' Tribal Chess Set, Circa 1960s/1970s
Brand: Cambridge Chess Forum
Price: 425.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

£425.00 GBP

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An imposing, exhibition-grade example of Cordilleran folk art. This museum-quality figural chess set stands far above typical mid-century tourist variants, featuring a grand 5-inch King and a substantial, fully hand-carved 19-inch square folding presentation board that doubles as a storage case.

Every figure is meticulously hand-sculpted by master woodcarvers from the Cordillera Central mountains of Northern Luzon, showcasing deep cultural realism and stylized local motifs.

Exotic Hardwoods & Master Craftsmanship

The opposing armies are carved from two of the most celebrated and protected native Philippine timbers:

The Dark Side: Sculpted from genuine Kamagong (Philippine Ebony), highly prized
- worldwide for its near-black, razor-dense heartwood and signature weight.
- The Light Side: Sculpted from rich, beautifully grained warm-red Narra wood (the national tree of the Philippines) or premium local Sangilu.
Anthropological Anatomy of the Set
- The Kings & Queens: Depicted as imposing tribal Chieftains and tribal matriarchs carrying traditional spiked/feathered ceremonial headdresses.
- The Pawns: Rendered as detailed Cordilleran warriors crouching in traditional attire, each bearing intricately rendered shields.
- The Rooks: Stylized beautifully as traditional Bale (Ifugao stilt houses) complete with their iconic, steep-pitched pyramidal thatched roofing.
- The Bases: Unlike standard mass-produced souvenir sets that use plain square bases, each figure in this premium set stands upon a deeply carved, geometric cross-hatched plinth.
King Height: 5.0 inches (Exhibition Size)
Board Dimensions: 19” x 19” square when opened; folds into a secure, fitted presentation case.
Condition: Very good vintage condition with some light scratches to the box and. light natural aging to the storage box clasp.