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Left view of a queen, from the Lewis Chesspieces

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found at Uig Bay, Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides

Left view of a queen, from the Lewis Chesspieces
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This is one of eight queens 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 left side of the piece. The intricately carved panels on the sides and back of the queen's throne are filled with geometric patterns.

The designs on the sides and back of the throne are similar to those on 12th-century wooden chairs and pews which can still be seen in the stave churches of Norway.

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