Continued

Ivory Berhampore chessmen, late eighteenth century (Victoria and Albert Museum, Harbeson, Esbola, Hafler and Platt Collections).

Dr Victor Keats M.Phil Ph.D. continually researched the provenance of chessman, bringing him into contact with the early literature on the subject. This is little known and in languages which are difficult of access most people.

Hence this series of books, in which he renders the subject accessible to the general public for the first time. The books map the evidence for a beginning in the Middle East and gradual diffusion through trade routes and conquest into the rest of the world. Much of the evidence is in Hebrew writings because of the Jews, more than anyone else, preserve their books. Their influence in the transmissions of culture cannot be overestimated.

To those who work with Chess, write about Chess or simply enjoy the game, this is a possession to be prized.