found at Uig Bay, Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides
This is one of eight kings known to have been amongst a hoard of around 80 chesspieces found in the winter of 1830-1 at Uig Bay on Lewis. The walrus ivory pieces were made in Iceland or Norway in the second half of the 12th century. The group is known as 'The Lewis Chessmen.'
The photograph shows the back of the piece. The back of the king's throne is decorated with two biting beasts in the the top corners, and foliage intertwined with the frame. The king has long hair.
Throughout the medieval period, long hair was a mark of royalty in Western Europe.
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