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Chess November 30, 2023

Introduction to Sikh Empire

Table of Contents

About Guru Gobind Singh Ji
Introduction to Sikh Empire
Chessbazaar’s Sikh Empire Series

About Guru Gobind Singh Ji

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji was the tenth Guru or Prophet of Sikh Religion or Faith. His birth name was Gobind Rai Sodhi and he was born in Bihar on 22nd December 1666 i.e. 23 Poh 1723 in the Gurmukhi calendar.

Other than being the last Guru of Sikhs, he is chiefly renowned as the creator of Khalsa (means the pure) i.e. Sikh military brotherhood. He preached a very significant lesson in Persian in Zafarnamah’s Couplet, which is- “When all other means have failed, it is but lawful to take to the sword”. He acquired Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji was the tenth Guru or Prophet of Sikh Religion or Faith.

Other than being the last Guru of Sikhs, he is chiefly renowned as the creator of Khalsa (means the pure) i.e. Sikh military brotherhood. He acquired some extraordinary intellectual attainments and knew distinct languages like- Sanskrit, Arabic, and Persian. He was the one that laid down the codes for the laws in Sikhism and even he wrote the Dasam Granth. Guru Gobind Singh proclaimed himself as the last person Prophet of Sikhism and ordered the Sikh people to consider Adi Granth- The Sikh Holy Book (Guru Granth Sahib Ji) as the Guru.

Introduction to Sikh Empire

Sikh Empire or Punjab Empire was an originating state in India under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. This empire has existence since 1707 but it got its real formation done from the time when Maharaja Ranjit Singh captured Lahore in 1799.

The formal start of the Sikh Empire happened in 1801 with the unification of the Misls. Sher-e-Punjab i.e. Maharaja Ranjit Singh united all the Misls and strengthened the Sikh Empire. The footprint of the Sikh Empire was from the Punjab region to Sindh in the South, Khyber Pass in the West, Tibet in the East, and Kashmir in the North.

Sikh Empire was based and working on the foundations of the Khalsa and Hari Singh Nalwa was the Commander-in-Chief of this Army. Baba Banda Singh Bahadur was one of the foremost and first figures in the history of the Sikh Empire. He was a great warrior and fought numerous battles. He denied converting to Islam, even when he was threatened in the name of death while being captured by Farrukhsiyar’s forces at Gurdas Nangal Fort for eight months.

Also Read: Skills to master through chess

Distinct Battles Fought by the Sikh Empire

This Sikh Empire (co-joining 12 Misls), then fought numerous battles- the Battle of Amritsar, Battle of Guler, Battle of Anandpur, Afghan-Sikh Wars, Battle of Nadaun, Battle of Kartarpur, Battle of Lohgarh, Battle of Samana, Battle of Mukhtsar, Seige of Amritsar, Seige of Ram Rauni, Gurka- Sikh War, Battle of Ferozeshah, Sino-Sikh War to name a few.

One of the most prominent battles was the Afghan-Sikh Wars, which was in fact a series of battles. This battle was between Sikh Empire and Durrani Empire (in Afghanistan). The conflicts between these two empires were raised during the days of Dal Khalsa and continued even after the fall of the Durrani Empire. The first phase comprised of Ahmad Shah Durrani invading and occupying Lahore and marching to the east to take up more territory.

Exactly at this time, he was defeated by the Mughals in alliance with Sikhs at the Battle of Manupur. Ala Singh, Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, and Charat Singh continued to harass Durrani forces during the first invasion of Ahmad Shah, which was a fail.

Sikhs commended the guerilla war with the Afghans to kick them out of Punjab and even defeated their huge number of Army in the Battle of Gohalwar, Amritsar. Sikhs also put the Afghan prisoners to clean scared tanks in Amritsar that they previously disrespected.

After Ahmad Shah Durrani died, the Durrani Empire was weak, but Timur Shah decided to attack when they find the opportunity against Sikhs. He sent an ambassador to the Sikhs attempting to please them with kind words to make peace.

However, Sikhs knew his intentions and showed arrogance and also quoted- “His highness Timur Shah is trying to scare us, but the fact of the matter is that he is afraid of us”. Next was the phase with Zaman Shah, who lead various campaigns of Punjab against Sikhs and captured Lahore.

In response to this, the Sikhs remain in peace to protect the holy city Amritsar. But, later when he progressed towards Amritsar, he was defeated 10 km far from the city and Zaman Shah was forced to leave his Punjab campaigns. After that, he even tried to resume his campaign but wasn’t successful.

Just like this, there was a fourth and fifth phase that included the Battle of Attock and Battle of Peshawar.

Lesson by Sikh Empire Battles

With bravery and an attitude of never backing down from any challenge, one can overcome every obstacle that comes in their life.

With a clear vision in mind and determination, one can win every battle.

With the ability to adapt, one can achieve admirable success toward achieving goals.

With the intention of respecting everyone, regardless of caste and creed, one can earn trust from people.

By applying the above-mentioned qualities, one can inspire others and make a positive impact.

Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Diwali

Sikh Faith & Principles

Sikhs show their faith via five visual signs known as Five Kakars. One is the Sikh undergarment, which signifies health and modesty, the second is the steel wristlet also called Kara, which is a sign of faith, the third is a wooden comb to keep hair clean and untangled, the fourth is to keep hair uncut for the creator’s honor, and the fifth is a small sword that defends the religious rights.

Kanga, Kara and Kirpan – three of the five Ks

Kangha – one of the five articles of faith for the Sikhs

Kara – one of the five articles of faith for the Sikhs

Kirpan is meant to be at least three foot long.

The main principles of Sikhism are- honest labor (Kirt Karna), sharing the earnings (Wand Chhakna), and meditating on Guru’s (God) name (Nam Japna). Sikhism stands for selfless service to the human race and the welfare of everyone. For this, it is acceptable to use the sword when you have used all the available resorts as per the preachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Some widely accepted and applied concepts in Sikh Religion are- Bani and Bana (outer look and inner values), Concept of Amrit, Concept of creation theory, the concept of Degh Tegh, the concept of Miri, and Piri, the concept of democracy, liberty, and equality.

Summing Up this with principles and teachings of the Sikh faith

Founded by Guru Nanak, and its teachings are primarily recorded in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. Here are some key principles and teachings of the Sikh faith:

Oneness of God: Sikhism emphasizes the belief in one, formless, and timeless God. The term “Ik Onkar” signifies the oneness of the divine.

Equality: Sikhs believe in the equality of all human beings, irrespective of caste, creed, gender, or nationality. Everyone is considered equal in the eyes of God.

Community Service: Service to humanity, known as “SEVA” in the Gurmukhi language is a major part of Sikhism. Sikhs are encouraged to engage in selfless service, helping those in need without any expectation of return.

Honest Living: Sikhs are encouraged to earn an honest living through hard work and integrity. They should avoid dishonest means of earning wealth by any means.

Remembering God Everytime: Sikhs are encouraged to remember and meditate on the divine name as it’s essential to deeply connect with god.

Sharing: Sikhs believe in sharing with others, particularly with those less fortunate. This principle encourages generosity and the spirit of giving. In Gurmukhi language it is popularly known as ‘Vand Chhako‘.

Equality of Women: Sikhism promotes the equality of women and men. The first Guru, Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, emphasized the respect for women through his words, ‘So Kyu Manda Aakhiye Jit Jamme Rajan,’ which translates to ‘Why call her inferior, from her, kings are born.’ Women in Sikhism have the same spiritual rights and responsibilities as men, and they can actively participate in all religious, social, and political activities.

Rejecting Rituals and Superstitions: Sikhism rejects rituals, superstitions, and idol worship. The focus is on a direct connection with the divine through prayer.

Community Worship: Sikhs gather in congregations for collective worship, singing hymns, and listening to the teachings of the Shri Guru Granth Sahib. This worship is known as “SATSANG” in sikhism.

Defending Justice: Sikhs are encouraged to stand up for justice and righteousness.

The ultimate goal is to lead a life of righteousness, devotion, and service to humanity while remembering and meditating on the divine.

Chessbazaar’s Sikh Empire Series:

Inspired by the Sikh Empire, we have introduce a dedicated product that reflects the cultural significance of the Sikh Empire from every perspective. In December 2022, we unveiled the Sikh Empire Series. Every member of the chessbazaar team, from artisans to other team members, put forth their honest and dedicated effort to launch the Sikh Empire series, just as we have done with every product provided to chess enthusiasts(know more from our satisfied customers) across the globe so far.

Now take a close at Chessbazaar’s Sikh Empire Series:

Sikh Empire Series Triple Weighted Wooden Handmade Chess Pieces in Bud Rosewood (Padauk) and Indian Boxwood - 4.5 — The Sikh Empire Series Triple Weighted Wooden Handmade Chess Pieces in Bud Rosewood (Padauk) and Indian Boxwood – 4.5″ King

We are delighted to launch this in the vibrant combination of wood, i.e., Bud Rosewood (Padauk) and Indian Boxwood. The added weight makes these pieces truly fantastic and perfect for those seeking a well-balanced piece with the right weight. We have also included a matching chess board: Red Ash Burl Maple Hi Gloss Borderless 19″ – 60 mm, which is optional to purchase. If someone doesn’t have a chess board, they can buy the board by clicking here SKU-B1023 with the additional amount mentioned on our product page. Overall, at Chessbazaar, we would love to help people buy their dream chess set easily and comfortably.

Link to Buy: https://www.chessbazaar.com/the-sikh-empire-series-triple-weighted-wooden-handmade-chess-pieces-in-bud-rosewood-padauk-and-indian-boxwood-4-5-king.html

The Sikh Empire Series Triple Weighted Wooden Handmade Chess Pieces in Genuine Ebony Wood and Indian Boxwood – 4.5″ King with Extra Queens

It is meant for those who have a fondness for Ebony wood, and due to this, we have dedicatedly launched this series in Ebony Wood and Indian Boxwood. Additionally, we have also included a matching boards i.e. B1007, D0141 with the Ebony and Indian Boxwood chess pieces. With attention to detail by our experienced artisans in the chess pieces, this series pleasantly surprised chess enthusiasts, collectors, and lovers globally.

Link to Buy: https://www.chessbazaar.com/the-sikh-empire-series-triple-weighted-wooden-handmade-chess-pieces-in-genuine-ebony-wood-and-indian-boxwood-4-5-king-with-extra-queens.html

Chess October 3, 2023

How to Set Up a Chess Board

The first and foremost rule at the start of the game of chess is the placement of the chessboard. Always remember – light on the right. Meaning the light-colored square is always on the right-hand side of the player. Take a look at the below mentioned picture.

Placement of a Chess Board — Light Coloured is always on the Right Side

Now comes the placement of the Rooks/Castles. These are placed on the four squares on the outer squares of the board.

Next to Rooks is the place of Knights.

Next to knights is Bishops.

Next to Bishops comes the Queen, the second most important piece in a chess set after the king. But always remember that the queen always sits in the color of its square. So the white/light-colored square will have a queen.

The king comes next to the queen. The front row of all these pieces is filled by the pawns.

Well, are you currently searching for finest quality wooden chess boards that looks premium and provide you with an amazing gaming experience? You are at the perfect spot! At chessbazaar, we have every type of chess board, be it a wooden or PVC chess board. Let’s have quick look at all we have:

Spanish Veneer Chess Boards

These chess boards are made from deluxe hardwood and feature sharp corners with a perfect matte finish. The matte finish is applied to protect these boards from smudges and scratches. These boards comes in various color combinations and patterns.

If you are in search of a chess board for your chess pieces, the Spanish Veneer Chess Boards are perfect for you. Below, we have showcased our best-selling boards from our ‘Spanish Veneer Chess Boards‘ online collection.

Minimalist Veener Wooden Black Chess Board

Wooden Deluxe Black Anigre Maple Matte Finish Chess Board

Luxury Chess Boards in Ebony Wood

These chess boards are crafted from the costliest wood, Ebony Wood, making them perfect for chess enthusiasts seeking elegance and luxury in style. The durability of these boards ensures they will last for many years. If you are someone who places special emphasis on aesthetic appeal and high-quality materials, the ‘Luxury Chess Boards in Ebony Wood‘ collection is designed just for you. We’ve featured our top-selling chess boards from our online collection in below mentioned gallery.

Solid Wooden Heavy Indian Handmade Chess Board in Genuine Ebony & Maple 23

Solid Wooden Indian Chess Board in Genuine Ebony Wood & Maple Wood with Sheesham Wood Border

Indian Rosewood Chess Boards

These chess boards often take the spotlight due to their dark brown wood, adorned with beautiful grain patterns. Indian Rosewood stands out when it comes to weight and stability. If you are a serious chess player, you can purchase Indian Rosewood Chess Boards without putting a burden on your pocket, as we offer exciting discounts periodically. For discount related information, you can visit our offer zone section. You can also like our facebook, twitter, Instagram channels for latest discount, product update etc.

Below, you’ll find the best-selling items from our collection.

Deluxe Indian Rosewood Maple Wooden Chess Board 23

Wooden Chess Board Dark Brown Indian Rosewood 21

Sheesham Wood Chess Boards

Made from Sheesham Wood, these chess boards feature intricate design patterns, making them a perfect match for 1959 Russian Zagreb Series and wooden staunton chess pieces. When we talk about the underside of the board, it is lined with green velvet on a wooden ply to provide a comfortable gaming experience. Ranging from 17 inches to 23 inches, these chess boards offer much more than their price suggests.

If you are looking for an affordable option that combines decent elegance and style, look no further than the Sheesham Wood Chess Boards from chessbazaar. We’ve listed the top items from this collection; please check out the categories mentioned below:

Beautiful Luxury Chess Board Sheesham Wood Maple - 21

Deluxe Sheesham Solid Wood Maple Wooden Chess Board 21

Our online chess store offers chess boards of various price ranges, preferences, designs, and styles to chess collectors, chess players of all levels. We would love to hear from you about your favorite chessbazaar chess board here in the comment section. We are eagerly waiting for your response.

Benefits of Chess September 7, 2023

How a Game of Chess Can Make Your Child a Genius and Smarter

Your chess set is lying in the dust of your storeroom because you don’t play chess anymore now? It’s time to dust off the board and pass on the legacy to your children. A healthy mind and a fit body contribute greatly in shaping the golden future of a child.

Unless the child is made to practice mental exercises in addition to physical exercises as he grows up, he would eventually experience problems such as mental numbness, forgetfulness etc. For long, chess has been considered as a game played only by intellectuals and individuals with critical thinking abilities.

However, the interesting fact is that chess can be played by people of all age groups and mind sets.

Chess is extremely helpful in brain development, particularly when it is played regularly from a very early age. Learning to play chess at a young age helps the children to gain valuable experience and wisdom which can be applied to almost any situation they will encounter in life.

Taking about the design, both chessboards and chess pieces create an amazing aura around them. As the design is so beautifully hand-crafted that they are surely a sight to watch when both are put together.

Chessbazaar’s 1950 Reproduced Dubrovnik Bobby Fischer Chessmen Version 3.0

Chess is one big science experiment; every time you play a game you are testing hypotheses and learning by trial and error. Chess is rooted in history and can open a door to history knowledge.

Related: Benefits of chess

Here are some more reasons for kids to learn chess:

Fosters critical and logical thinking
Generates creativity
Make You Calculative
Makes You Self Dependent
Teaches children how to make difficult decisions without consulting another
Raises intelligence quotient scores (IQ)
Chess makes the child learn how to strategize aspects of the game and life. He can learn the importance of foresight, and planning
Grows Your Dendrites
Pump up the brain power
Improves concentration and memory

If you teach an adult to play chess, they quickly comprehend where they should and shouldn’t move pieces to capture or avoid capture. But when a child learns to play chess, he soon says, “If I move my piece here, you could capture it, right? Then I’m not going to move there.”

You can almost see the mental changes taking place. So you can see your child can tremendously benefit from a game of chess while also having a great time. Chess can help develop these valuable skills in any child, regardless of their background or natural talents.

May be one day they can also beat Sergey Karjakin who still holds the record for the youngest grandmaster in chess history at 12 years old and 7 months.

Dreaming that your child will become the youngest grandmaster in chess history and aspiring for them to surpass even Sergey Karjakin. Surprisignly your child also can, only if you can teach them the following skills:

Advise Your Child to Focus: Likewise, we have often heard from people or read on the internet that carefully observing a chess game and analyzing it deeply are crucial. Similarly, we advise children to concentrate on what is actually happening around the chessboard, from both sides. If they don’t understand what is happening on the chessboard, they will be unable to respond effectively.
Planning in Advance: Recalling the situation mentioned earlier in this blog post, ‘If I move my piece here, you could capture it, right?’ we’ve taught them to ask themselves, ‘If I do this, what might happen next, and how would I respond to it. Bring up this Lessons With A Grandmaster 2 : Boris Gulko & Dr. Joel R. Sneed as a helpful resource to your child.
Visualization in Mind: Visualizing the moves allows children to develop strategic ideas. We encourage children to picture the potential future moves; this will help them create a roadmap for their game.
Re Assess The Goals: Children are often taught to develop goals and take steps accordingly. They are also taught the need to reassess their plans as new developments can always change the situation. This straightaway encourages your child to become a well-rounded player not only in chess but also in every aspect of life.

Chess has a unique and strong brand attribute, in that it is generally perceived that playing chess and being smart are connected. This can be very positive driver for young children. So, help your kids to become smarter in life and gift them a starter chess game set this birthday.

TRAVEL SERIES ROUND MAGNETIC CHESS SET IN SHEESHAM & MAPLE 9 inch

7 Inch TRAVEL SERIES FOLDING MAGNETIC LACQUER CHESS SET SHEESHAM & MAPLE

Let’s play chess to develop our minds and try be better humans.

We at chessbazaar provide world class chess pieces and boards. We ship free around the globe. Visit us to know more.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT HOW YOUR CHILD GET BETTER AT CHESS?

We brings you blogs on specific topics including, How to Get Good at Chess, Tips for effective learning etc. Each blogs contains insightful information that help your child be upfront.

HOW TO GET GOOD AT CHESS BY PLAYING STRATEGICALLY

CHECKMATE THESE 3 MISTAKES WHEN STUDYING CHESS: TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE LEARNING

WHAT’S THE BEST CHESS OPENING A BEGINNER SHOULD PLAY

SKILLS TO MASTER THROUGH CHESS

A Quick Guide to Find the Perfect Chess Set August 16, 2023

How to Measure a Perfect Chessboard for a Particular King Size?

There are many problems when it comes to playing chess that an individual is likely to encounter. One of them is choosing the right chessboard that would be appropriate for the size of the pieces, it is pretty important.

There have been tons of publications from different websites on how to find the right chess board for a piece size, however, many guidelines are not practical.

Most tackle this question by taking the height of the king and dictating the appropriate sizes, however, the base diameter is actually the most important metric.

That is going to be the main focus of this article, here it will be explained how the base diameter of the King can be used to find the appropriate chess board for the pieces. Keep on reading to learn more.

The Base Diameter of the King can be Used to Determine the Right Chessboard

In order to find the best chess board that will be suitable for your chess pieces, it is important to look at the size of the king. Most sizes of the pieces will be complementary to the base diameter of the king.

It is generally recommended to choose an appropriate chessboard where the size of the squares are proportionate to the base diameter of the king.

If the king can appear fitting to the square size of the chess board it is very likely that the other pieces will be in similar proportions. The most important metric is the base diameter of the king.

The king can be in various heights yet have a similar base diameter, the proportion of the base diameter will be the most important when it comes to the sizes of the square.

If the base diameter is too small, the pieces would appear very small when placed in a standard square size (and vice versa). The base diameter of the king and the square size are the two most important metrics for the calculation.

Also Read: Best Designer & Unique Chess Sets for Décor, Study, Home Office or Library

Calculating the base diameter of the king to find the right chessboard

The best practice for determining which square size is fitting for a king size would be the ratio between the square size to the king’s base diameter in percentages. This can be confusing however.

Traditionally the ratio is between 72%-82% for most commercial chess boards. The U.S. chess federation recommends the ratio between the king diameter to the square size at around 72%-82% (in tournament settings).

The information out there is not consistent, some players even say that the square size/king size ratio should be between 68%-85%. If we take the median to all of this for the sake of calculation, it would be 76.5%.

With this number in mind the calculation is incredibly simple, we have already established that the base diameter should at least occupy 76.5% of the chessboard. We can now calculate using a simple division.

Let’s say that we have a King piece with a base diameter of 3.25″, all you have to do is to divide that by 0.765 (76.5%) and you will get the appropriate size for a chessboard.

3.25 (king’s base diameter) ÷ 0.765 (base diameter/square size percentage) = 4.2″ chess board (square size).

This means that if you have a king piece with a base diameter of 3.25″, the appropriate square size of its chess board should be around 4.2″.

You just need to take the king’s base diameter and divide it by the king’s base diameter/percentage ratio that you prefer. The 76.5% percentage is just used in this example since it is the median of the recommended sizes.

The Right Chessboard for the Standard King Size

Let’s take this formula to the test using the standard King’s base diameter practiced in formal chess tournaments. The standard base diameter for Kings used in tournaments is 1.75″.

If we divide it by 0.765 the square size would be 2.28“.

If we divide it differently, let’s say 1.75/0.78 (another standard percentage) the resulting square size is 2.25″. This 2.25″ square size is actually the recommended chess board size in USCF.

However there are many other recommended ratios as been discussed above, if we are going to stay at the 76.5%, the appropriate square size is 2.28″ (for a 1.75″ base diameter of the king).

This means that if you are going for a standard size with the king (which will have a base diameter of 1.75″) then you should choose a chessboard that has a square size of between 2.25″ and 2.28″.

Here in chessbazaar we have many chess boards that have the given ratios, an example of this is the Wooden Chess Board Ebony Sheesham Wood 21.8″ – 60 mm which would be a good pair for most piece sizes.

If you are looking for an actual pair though we have Reproduced 1849 Original Staunton Pattern Chess Pieces in Ebony / Antiqued Boxwood – 4.5″ King which should go well with the veneered luxury chessboard mentioned above.

1849 Original Staunton Pattern Chess Pieces in Ebony and Antiqued Boxwood

A less expensive option for the standard tournament board size would be this FOLDING CARDBOARD 19″ CHESS BOARD WITH NOTATIONS IN BROWN AND OFF WHITE SQUARE – 55MM SQUARE which has basically a similar size yet is way inexpensive.

A good pair for the folding (cardboard) chessboard is this Tournament Series Staunton Chess Pieces with German Knight in Sheesham & Box Wood – 3.75″ King which would have the right size that follows most tournament standards.

Chessbazaar Tournament Series Staunton Chess Pieces

There are many examples of the standard size pair since it is the most popular size for consumers, finding the piece/chess board combination that is more on the unusual side is quite difficult.

Also Read: Want to relax? Try Chess

King’s Base Diameter-Square Size can Change Depending on Preference

It is important to note that the measurements performed above are those within standard evaluations, however, some players prefer having their chessboard to be too small/too large for the size of the king.

In these cases the formula can easily be adjusted to your preferred percentage (just replace the 76.5% to the percentage of your liking).

There are those that find it difficult to play with smaller pieces/board ratio primarily because of poor eyesight, these kinds of individuals prefer a bigger base diameter/square size ratio.

If you belong in this category then simply adjust the percentage (in the calculation) to be higher in order to get a bigger piece/board ratio. If we are to take the standard King’s base diameter (1.75“) you can adjust it to 85% for example and have this calculation:

1.75″ ÷ 0.85 = 2.05″ square size. This ensures that the base diameter of the king covers at least 85% of the square which would make it appear bigger.

On the other hand, there are those that find playing with bigger pieces quite distracting so they would prefer a smaller piece/board ratio.

If you belong in this category then simply adjust the percentage (in the calculation) to be lower in order to get a lower piece/board ratio. If we are to take the standard King’s base diameter (1.75″) you can adjust it to 65% for example and have this calculation:

1.75″ ÷ 0.65 = 2.69” square size. This ensures that the base diameter of the king covers at least 65% of the square which would make it appear smaller.

In the market, it will be challenging to find these combination pairs since it is not really something that is often wanted by consumers, if you prefer a custom size you need to buy the piece and the chessboard separately.

Here in chessbazaar we have the categorization that makes it easier for consumers to find the right size as well as other factors like price, rating, and stock. Just click the product you prefer and you will see this categorization.

This way it will be significantly faster to find your preferred piece size and chessboard size taking away all the hassle in the process, it will ensure that you also have a quality product as well.

You can experiment in whatever way that you want as long as you follow this calculation, you can find the appropriate chessboard just by looking at the king’s base diameter through this method.

Our Wooden Chess Board Dark Brown Indian Rosewood 21″ – 55 mm

Final Thoughts

There are definitely many methodologies that you can implement to find the right chess board size for a specific piece size, however, the base diameter is simply the best metric that can be used to solve this.

There are many defective products that have the appropriate height yet not the appropriate base diameter, which is the most important since it determines how the pieces look when placed on the chessboard.

By using the calculation presented in this article (King’s base diameter ÷ desired square size percentage) you can accurately tell which chessboard size is appropriate for your pieces.

The size of the king is usually proportional to the size of the remaining pieces, so this is going to be applicable to all other pieces and not just the king. That is all, thank you for reading.

Chess August 14, 2023

How to Make Perfectly Carved Wooden Chess Set

We all know that chess set is the combination of both chess pieces and chessboard. Chess sets with extraordinary designs are made of different materials such as metals, plastic, wood, alabaster, glass, marble and stone. Stone chess sets are mainly made of alabaster and marble. Since the ban on elephant tusk, sellers now use camel bone to make bone chess pieces.

Plastic chess pieces are basically colorless because of the polymers found in them. Metal chess sets are made of alloys like zinc, tin, copper, bronze, brass, aluminum and pewter.

Wooden chess sets are in great demand among chess lovers, collectors and chess players . As they offer a huge variety to the buyers, Ebony and rosewood make the most luxury chess sets in the world.

These exotic woods are hardwoods and it is very rare. This is first and foremost reason why wooden chess pieces are very valuable and expensive in the market. Aspects such as skilled artisans, usage of finest quality materials and many other also drive up the prices of these exquisite chess sets. Know more why handmade wooden chess sets are expensive.

Things to keep in mind before you actually start carving –

Carving wooden chess sets require a high level of precision and focus.
The chess pieces begin life as shapeless blocks of hardwood. Very dense and consistent woods are used, so that meticulous chess pieces are carved out of it. So, you’ll be needing heavy tools and motor to spin the block to carve easily.
Chess pieces with extremely detailed displaying strands of hair, teeth, etc are costly because of the level of hard work and time put into them for carving out those extraordinary chess pieces.
Solid understanding on different types of woods used in a handmade chess set can help you make informed decisions about the appearance, quality, and overall experience of the set. Also it allows you to create or select a chess set that aligns with your preferences and intended purpose. So, make sure you must have a proper understanding on various types of woods before carving.

It’s really a work of art, so if you’re 100% sure then go for it. Best of luck.

Now, let’s dive into the theoretical aspect of how to carve a wooden chess set –

Designing the chess pieces: The very first step is to choose a design for your chess piece. You can get a design online, from books or you can think of your own design. Second, you have to choose the wood, If you want a black carved piece you can use Ebony wood shown in the picture below:

Carving the pieces on the wood lathe machine: Take two different kinds of woods, one for darker side and other for the lighter side. You can also choose the same kind of wood for both the sides, the pieces then can be stained afterward. Now take the wooden block and mount it on the lathe.

Start turning and press the cutting tool up to the turning piece of wood, to begin carving it.

Doing the fine carving: Now this is the most challenging part of chess making process. Carve your chess pieces to perfection using special tools, knives, and your hand. Use your chess design and give those details to your chess pieces.

Sanding and treating the chess pieces: It is very important to sand the chess pieces, in order to get the smooth and even surface. Chess pieces are then treated with a solution that helps the chess pieces to preserve.
Final finishing and polishing: Final touches are made and chess pieces are polished to a high shine. Chessbazaar buff polishes the chess pieces to make the world’s best quality chess pieces.

Combo of The Pegasus Series Artisan Staunton Chess Pieces ver 2.0

Combo of Reproduced 1849 Original Staunton Pattern Chess Pieces in Lacquer Finished Painted Crimson & Ivory White

*Tools Required: Pencil, Scratch paper, Wooden lathe, Different sandpaper grits. Begin carving your dream chess set or we at chessbazaar will be more than glad to make the chess set that you always wanted but could not find or it was way too expensive to buy one from some other seller. Know More

Do Check Out this amazing video on Luxury Wooden Handmade Chess Sets in Staunton Style & Chess Reproductions from chessbazaar:

chessbazaar July 18, 2023

To What Extent is Creativity Needed in a Chess Board Game?

Creativity plays a significant role in chess and is often valued as a crucial element of the game. While chess is a deeply logical and strategic game, creativity allows players to think beyond conventional moves and come up with innovative ideas and plans. Here’s the extent to which creativity is needed in chess:

Opening Preparation: In the initial moves of a game, creativity can be employed to surprise opponents with uncommon or unusual opening variations. Creative players may develop new ideas, explore unconventional lines, or combine different opening systems to create unique positions on the board.

Also Read: Checkmate these 3 mistakes when studying chess: Tips for effective learning

Positional Understanding: Creativity is essential in evaluating and understanding the positional aspects of a chess position. It involves finding original and imaginative plans to improve piece coordination, control of key squares, or maneuvering strategies to gain a long-term advantage. Creative players often come up with unconventional and unexpected moves that challenge their opponents.

Related Post: Chess Pieces Names and Moves

Tactical Solutions: Creativity is vital in finding tactical combinations and exploiting opportunities on the chess board. Unorthodox sacrifices, unexpected checks, or surprising mating patterns often require thinking outside the box and seeing possibilities that others may overlook. Creative players excel in generating tactical complications that lead to favorable outcomes.

Endgame Techniques: Creative thinking can also manifest in the endgame, where players must employ inventive strategies to convert small advantages into victories or save challenging positions. Finding unique ways to exploit pawn majorities, create mating nets, or employ zugzwang (forcing unfavorable moves on the opponent) can make a substantial difference in endgame play.

Also Read: Chess Theory

Time Management: Creativity extends to time management, as players need to allocate their limited time effectively. Making quick, accurate decisions while under time pressure requires the ability to generate original ideas rapidly and evaluate their potential. Creative time management ensures that the best moves are chosen efficiently.

It’s important to note that creativity in chess must be grounded in a solid foundation of knowledge, strategic understanding, and calculation. Creativity alone is not sufficient to succeed; it must be balanced with strong positional awareness and accurate calculation skills.

Ultimately, chess is a beautiful blend of logical thinking and creative problem-solving. The ability to think creatively gives players an edge by enabling them to surprise opponents, discover hidden resources, and find unconventional solutions.

Chess April 11, 2023

Exploring Options and Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Chess Set

Chess is a timeless game that has been enjoyed by people for centuries. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, purchasing a chess set is an important decision. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide on which set to buy. In this blog, we will explore the options and factors to consider when purchasing a chess set, including the best chess set under $100, and why the Chessbazaar brand is the largest and best for wooden chess sets.

Material

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a chess set is the material. Chess sets can be made of a variety of materials including wood, plastic, metal, and glass. Wooden chess sets are the most popular choice because they are durable, classic, and give a tactile feel to the game. They come in a variety of woods, including ebony, rosewood, and teak. Chessbazaar offers a wide range of wooden chess sets, including the best chess set under $100.

Size

The size of a chess set is also important to consider. Chess sets come in a variety of sizes, from small travel sets to large tournament sets. The size you choose will depend on your personal preference and how you plan to use the set. If you plan on playing on the go, a smaller set is more practical, whereas a larger set may be more suitable for display purposes.

Design

Another factor to consider is the design of the chess set. Chess sets come in a variety of styles, from classic Staunton designs to unique and elaborate designs. The design you choose will depend on your personal taste and the overall aesthetic you are trying to achieve. Chessbazaar offers a wide range of designs to choose from, including sets with intricate carvings and pieces in unique shapes.

Price

The price of a chess set is also an important factor to consider. Chess sets can range in price from under $10 to over $10,000. It is important to find a set that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs and preferences. Chessbazaar offers a variety of chess sets at different price points, including the best chess set under $100.

Brand

When it comes to wooden chess sets, Chessbazaar is the largest and best brand in the market. They offer a wide range of wooden chess sets in various designs, sizes, and materials. Their sets are made of high-quality materials and are durable, ensuring that they will last for years to come. Chessbazaar also offers exceptional customer service, making them a reliable and trustworthy brand to purchase from.

In conclusion, purchasing a chess set is an important decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. When purchasing a wooden chess set, it is important to consider the material, size, design, price, and brand. Chessbazaar is the largest and best brand for wooden chess sets, offering a wide range of sets in various designs, sizes, and materials. They also offer exceptional customer service and the best chess set under $100, making them a reliable and trustworthy brand to purchase from.

Related Article: History of the Max Ernst Chess Set!

Blog on Chess April 3, 2023

Checkmate these 3 mistakes when studying chess: Tips for effective learning

Chess is a game that has been around for centuries, and it continues to attract players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s always something new to learn in chess. However, learning chess can be challenging, and many players make mistakes that slow down their progress. In this blog post, we’ll look at three common mistakes that chess players make when studying chess and provide tips for effective learning.

Mistake #1: Focusing Too Much on Openings

One of the most common mistakes that chess players make is focusing too much on openings. While it’s important to understand the principles behind different openings and to have a repertoire of openings that you’re comfortable with, spending too much time on openings can be counterproductive. Openings only account for a small percentage of a game of chess, and they’re only relevant in the first few moves of the game. Once the opening phase is over, the game enters the middlegame, where the real chess begins.

Tip #1: Focus on the Fundamentals

Instead of spending all your time on openings, focus on the fundamentals of chess. This includes understanding the principles of pawn structure, piece placement, and the importance of controlling the center of the board. By focusing on these fundamentals, you’ll be able to play stronger chess in all phases of the game, not just in the opening.

Related: Want to relax? Try Chess

Tip #2: Study Master Games

Studying master games is an excellent way to learn the fundamentals of chess. By studying the games of great players, you’ll see how they apply the principles of chess to their games. You’ll also learn how to think strategically and how to develop a plan in the middlegame.

Best Study Chess Set you must have- Tournament Series Staunton Chess Pieces

Mistake #2: Not Analyzing Your Games

Another common mistake that chess players make is not analyzing their games. After a game of chess, it’s essential to go back and analyze the game to see where you went wrong and where you could have made better moves. Without analyzing your games, you’ll continue to make the same mistakes and won’t improve as quickly.

Tip #3: Analyze Your Games

After each game of chess, take the time to analyze the game. Look at each move you made and try to understand why you made that move. Look for mistakes, missed opportunities, and alternative moves that you could have played. By analyzing your games, you’ll be able to identify your weaknesses and work on them.

Best Analysis Chess Set for your study – Reproduced Vintage 1930 German Knubbel Analysis Chess Pieces

Tip #4: Use a Chess Engine

Using a chess engine is an excellent way to analyze your games. Chess engines can analyze your games and provide you with feedback on your moves. They can also suggest alternative moves that you could have played. By using a chess engine, you’ll be able to identify your mistakes and learn from them.

Mistake #3: Not Practicing Enough

Finally, another common mistake that chess players make is not practicing enough. Chess is a game that requires practice to improve. Without practice, you won’t develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become a strong player. You can join a club or have a like minded friend with whom you can play chess every evening.

Tip #5: Play Regularly

One of the best ways to practice chess is to play regularly. Whether you play online or in person, playing chess regularly will help you improve your game. By playing regularly, you’ll be able to apply the principles you’ve learned and develop your chess skills.

Tip #6: Solve Chess Puzzles

Another way to practice chess is to solve chess puzzles. Chess puzzles are problems that require you to find the best move or sequence of moves to win the game or gain an advantage. By solving chess puzzles, you’ll develop your tactical skills and improve your ability to find the best move in a given position.

Conclusion

Learning chess can be challenging, but by avoiding these common mistakes and following these tips can effectively make you better in chess over the time.

Happy Chess Playing!

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chessbazaar March 3, 2023

Why Handmade Wooden Chess Sets are expensive?

Chess is one of the oldest and most popular games played around the world. It is a game that requires immense focus, strategy, and critical thinking skills. Apart from being a source of entertainment, chess is also a way to challenge oneself intellectually. However, chess is not just about the game itself, but also the equipment that is used to play it. The chess set is a crucial component of the game, and it is available in different materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. In this blog post, we will focus on handmade wooden chess sets and why they are expensive.

Handmade Wooden Chess Sets

Punjab, a state located in the northern part of India, is famous for its handmade wooden chess sets. These chess sets are made from high-quality wood such as Sheesham wood, Indian rosewood, Bud Rosewood, ebony wood for the dark side, and boxwood for the light side. The artisans who make these chess sets are highly skilled and have been practicing their craft for generations. They use traditional techniques to carve and shape each chess piece by hand.

Why are Handmade Wooden Chess Sets Expensive?

There are several reasons why handmade wooden chess sets are expensive. Let’s take a closer look at some of these reasons:

Quality of Wood

One of the main reasons why handmade wooden chess sets are expensive is the quality of wood used. The artisans in Punjab, India, use only the best quality wood to make these chess sets. Sheesham wood, Indian rosewood, bud rosewood, and ebony wood are all premium woods that are known for their durability, strength, and beauty. These woods are also known for their resistance to warping and cracking, making them ideal for chess pieces that will be used frequently.

2. Skilled Artisans

The artisans who make these handmade wooden chess sets are highly skilled and have years of experience in their craft. They have developed their skills through years of practice and are considered experts in their field. These artisans use traditional techniques to carve and shape each chess piece by hand. This level of skill and expertise is not easy to come by, and it is one of the reasons why handmade wooden chess sets are so expensive.

3. Time and Effort

Handmade wooden chess sets require a significant amount of time and effort to make. Each chess piece is carved and shaped by hand, which can take hours, if not days, to complete. The artisans in Punjab, India, work tirelessly to create these intricate chess pieces, and their efforts are reflected in the final product. The time and effort that goes into making each chess piece by hand is another reason why handmade wooden chess sets are expensive.

4. Unique Designs

Handmade wooden chess sets are often unique and one-of-a-kind. The artisans who make these chess sets use their creativity and imagination to come up with designs that are not available in mass-produced sets. This uniqueness adds to the value of the chess set and is another reason why handmade wooden chess sets are expensive.

5. Limited Production

Handmade wooden chess sets are often produced in limited quantities. This is because the process of making each chess piece by hand is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Therefore, the production of these chess sets is limited to a few pieces per month or year. Limited production means that the demand for these chess sets often exceeds the supply, which drives up the price.

6. Brand Name

Finally, the brand name associated with handmade wooden chess sets can also contribute to their high price. Chessbazaar, for example, is a leading chess manufacturer in the world that works closely with artisans in Punjab, India, to produce high-quality handmade wooden chess sets. The brand name and reputation associated with Chessbazaar add to the value of their handmade wooden chess sets.

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chessbazaar February 24, 2023

History of the Max Ernst Chess Set!

The Max Ernst Chess Set is a unique and captivating work of art that combines the traditional game of chess with surrealism. It was created by the artist Max Ernst in 1944, while he was living in exile in the United States during World War II. The set was made using found objects, such as toys and trinkets, which were combined to create a one-of-a-kind set that has become a true masterpiece.
In this article, we will explore the history of the Max Ernst Chess Set, its design and construction, and the impact it has had on the world of art and chess.

About Max Ernst Chess Set

Max Ernst was a German-born artist who was one of the pioneers of the surrealist movement. He was forced to flee his home country in 1938 due to his opposition to the Nazi regime, and he eventually settled in the United States. While living in New York during World War II, Ernst began work on the Max Ernst Chess Set.
The set was created during a time when many artists were exploring new mediums and ways of expression. The surrealists in particular were interested in tapping into the unconscious mind to create works of art that were beyond rational explanation. Ernst was no exception, and he saw the game of chess as the perfect vehicle for his artistic vision.
The Max Ernst Chess Set was first exhibited in 1945 at the Julien Levy Gallery in New York City. It was an instant sensation, and it quickly became one of the most talked-about pieces of art in the city. The set was eventually acquired by the Museum of Modern Art in New York, where it remains on display today.

Design and Construction

The Max Ernst Chess Set is made up of a total of 32 pieces, each of which is a unique creation. The pieces are made from a variety of found objects, such as buttons, toys, and trinkets, which were combined and arranged in such a way as to create a unified design.
The chessboard itself is also a work of art, with a hand-painted design that features various surreal and abstract elements. The board is made from wood and measures approximately 23 inches by 23 inches.
Each of the pieces in the Max Ernst Chess Set is a masterpiece in its own right. The pawns, for example, are small figures made from metal and other materials, while the kings and queens are more elaborate, featuring ornate crowns and other decorations.
The use of found objects in the creation of the Max Ernst Chess Set is a hallmark of the surrealist movement. By taking objects that were originally intended for other purposes and recontextualizing them in a new setting, Ernst was able to create a work of art that was truly unique and unlike anything that had been seen before.

Also Read: Chess Board and Pieces Dimensions

Impact and Legacy

The Max Ernst Chess Set has had a lasting impact on both the worlds of art and chess. As a work of art, it has inspired countless other artists to explore new mediums and techniques, and it has helped to cement Ernst’s reputation as one of the most important artists of the 20th century.
In the world of chess, the Max Ernst Chess Set has become a true collector’s item. Its rarity and uniqueness have made it a highly sought-after item among collectors, and it has been featured in numerous exhibitions and auctions over the years.
More broadly, the Max Ernst Chess Set is an example of the power of art to transcend traditional boundaries and merge different disciplines. By combining the game of chess with the principles of surrealism, Ernst was able to create a work of art that was both beautiful and thought-provoking.

Conclusion

The Max Ernst Chess Set is a true masterpiece that has captured the imagination of art and uniqueness. We at chessbazaar would be delighted to custom made these Max Ernest chess set in Sheesham or ebonized. Kindly write to us at sales @ chessbazaar.com and we would be happy to assist.

Max Ernst Chess in sheesham wood — in sheesham

Max Ernst Chess in boxwood material — in boxwood

Max Ernst Chess in sheesham — in sheesham

Previous: Why Luxury Chess Sets are Expensive and Why do you Own One?
Next: Why Handmade Wooden Chess Sets are expensive?

chess

About Guru Gobind Singh Ji

Introduction to Sikh Empire

Distinct Battles Fought by the Sikh Empire

Lesson by Sikh Empire Battles

Sikh Faith & Principles

Summing Up this with principles and teachings of the Sikh faith

Chessbazaar’s Sikh Empire Series:

Now take a close at Chessbazaar’s Sikh Empire Series:

Spanish Veneer Chess Boards

Luxury Chess Boards in Ebony Wood

Indian Rosewood Chess Boards

Sheesham Wood Chess Boards

The Base Diameter of the King can be Used to Determine the Right Chessboard

Calculating the base diameter of the king to find the right chessboard

The Right Chessboard for the Standard King Size

King’s Base Diameter-Square Size can Change Depending on Preference

Our Wooden Chess Board Dark Brown Indian Rosewood 21″ – 55 mm

Final Thoughts

Things to keep in mind before you actually start carving –

Now, let’s dive into the theoretical aspect of how to carve a wooden chess set –

Material

Size

Design

Price

Brand

Mistake #1: Focusing Too Much on Openings

Tip #1: Focus on the Fundamentals

Tip #2: Study Master Games

Mistake #2: Not Analyzing Your Games

Tip #3: Analyze Your Games

Tip #4: Use a Chess Engine

Mistake #3: Not Practicing Enough

Tip #5: Play Regularly

Tip #6: Solve Chess Puzzles

Conclusion

Handmade Wooden Chess Sets

Why are Handmade Wooden Chess Sets Expensive?

Quality of Wood

2. Skilled Artisans

3. Time and Effort

4. Unique Designs

5. Limited Production

6. Brand Name

About Max Ernst Chess Set

Design and Construction

Impact and Legacy

Conclusion