1849 Jacques Cook Staunton Coleccionistas Juego de Ajedrez - Solo Piezas de Ajedrez- Capullo de Palo de Rosa - 3.75"

This is my third purchase from Royal Chess Mall, my second 3.75-inch, 1849 Jacques Cook Staunton but in boxwood and bud rosewood; I assume padauk in most cases. Please read the review of my antiqued boxwood and ebony set (https://royalchessmall.com/products/1849-jacques-cook-staunton-chess-pieces-only-collectors-set-ebony-wood-3-75) before proceeding.

Basically the same can be said for this set from the expert carving of the knights to the precise and consistent turning of the remaining pieces by talented artisans. Though the contrast between boxwood and bud rosewood is not as dramatic as antiqued boxwood and ebony, there is no wood for individual pieces more strikingly beautiful than bud rosewood. Only amboyna burl, often used for inlays in high-end, custom-made pool cues, is more eye catching, but the wide color variation makes it inappropriate for chess pieces.

As with the antiqued boxwood and ebony, this set is an excellent choice for tournament play as seen in the photo. Opponents may object to bright red lacquered pieces (I wouldn’t), but you’ll receive few complaints with the deep, rich colors on display here. Okay, I imagine some players may, but you can’t please everyone.

Lastly, every piece was perfect right out of the box, and as with the other two sets a pleasure to unwrap from their protective foam strips.

Five stars for the 1849 Jacques reproduction in boxwood and bud rosewood! Five stars for the artisans at Royal Chess Mall!