Reynard the Fox Chess Pieces - Ex-Display

Inspired by the medieval tales of Reynard the Fox, these distinctive Berkeley Chess pieces bring the characters and humour of the famous European beast fables to the chessboard. The set comprises 32 detailed chessmen, with each character carefully designed to capture the personality and storytelling of the original tales.

The pieces are finished in Russet, a contemporary brown stain, before being further stained to create an aged, antique effect. Made from a carefully balanced combination of crushed marble and resin, the pieces have a substantial feel and are finished with protective felt bases.

The Story of Reynard the Fox

Reynard the Fox is the central character of a famous series of medieval European animal tales that used clever, human-like animals to satirise contemporary society. Reynard is portrayed as a cunning trickster whose intelligence allows him to outwit stronger characters, particularly his great rival, Isengrim the wolf.

The stories became particularly popular throughout medieval France, Flanders and Germany, with different writers and traditions developing Reynard's character over centuries. Sometimes a mischievous hero and sometimes a villainous rogue, Reynard came to symbolise the triumph of cleverness over brute strength.

The designers at Berkeley Chess have brought these medieval fables to life through a collection of detailed character pieces, with the key figures from the Reynard stories represented across the chess set.

About Berkeley Chess

Based in rural Somerset in the South West of England, Berkeley Chess specialises in imaginative decorative chess sets inspired by history, literature and culture. Traditional production techniques are used to reproduce original sculptures, with detailed moulding, staining and polishing helping bring out the character of each individual piece.

Why Choose These Pieces

This is an unusual statement set for anyone who enjoys chess, medieval history or distinctive character pieces. As an ex-display set with a replacement Black King, it is also an opportunity to own these substantial Berkeley Chess pieces at a significantly reduced price.

*Ex-display item - the original Black King was missing and has been replaced with a different Black King. The replacement does not match the original pieces. Please see photos before purchasing.

*Chess pieces only - chessboard is not included.