Royal Selangor Chess Sets Now Available
Royal Selangor Chess Sets Now Available
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Isle Of Lewis Chess Sets

The Isle of Lewis chess sets are among the most fascinating and admired designs in the chess world. 

The originals, discovered in 1831 on Scotland’s Isle of Lewis, date back to the 12th century and are believed to be of Norse craftsmanship. With their expressive faces, carved cloaks, and distinctive stances, they continue to capture the imagination of historians, collectors, and players alike.

At Sterling Chess, we’ve curated a selection of high-quality replicas that honour the spirit and detail of the original Lewis Chessmen. Each set is chosen for accuracy, craftsmanship, and authenticity; the qualities that make these pieces so compelling.

A collection rooted in history

Our Isle of Lewis sets are crafted in resin, stone, or pewter to closely match the texture and visual character of the museum artefacts. Many pieces are hand-finished to ensure the small details — the wide-eyed kings, the stoic warders, the bishop’s layered robes — remain true to the original carvings. Some sets lean toward an antique ivory tone, while others offer a polished pewter finish that adds weight and presence.

Matched wooden boards made from maple, walnut, or sheesham complete the presentation, allowing the pieces to stand out beautifully whether displayed in a study or used for regular play.

Craftsmanship that tells a story

The charm of the Lewis Chessmen lies not just in their history but in their character. These aren’t standardised Staunton shapes — they’re expressive figures with personality. Owning an Isle of Lewis set feels less like buying a chess set and more like welcoming a piece of medieval art into your home. Many customers choose them as centrepieces or heirloom keepsakes, while others use them for occasional play, enjoying the weight, durability, and presence of each piece.

At Sterling Chess, we ensure every set we stock meets a high standard of finish and accuracy. We work only with reputable makers who faithfully reproduce the artistry and spirit of the originals.

Trusted local support

As an Australian specialist retailer, we guarantee that every Isle of Lewis set we offer is sourced directly from the manufacturer — never grey imports, never low-quality copies. Our team inspects each set for consistency, weight, detailing, and colouration before it leaves our warehouse.

With fast local shipping, secure packaging, and personal support, we make sure your set arrives ready to display and enjoy.

Isle of Lewis chess set FAQs

Are these official replicas?

Our sets are high-quality, accurate reproductions sourced from trusted manufacturers.

Are they suitable for regular play?

Yes. Most pieces are weighted and felted for comfortable, everyday use.

What materials are used?

Common materials include resin, stone composites, and pewter, chosen for durability and detail.

Do the sets come with a board?

Some do; others are pieces only. We can recommend ideal board pairings.