J. Lanier Graham
Chess Sets.
Walker and Company, 1968. Collectors' Blue Books. Author-signed first edition. 82 pages.
Volume, measuring approximately 6.25" x 8.75", is bound in dark blue cloth, with stamped gilt lettering to spine. Book is in fine condition, with firm binding, clean and bright interior.
Inscription appears at top of front flyleaf. Dust jacket, with price of $3.50 on front flap, exhibits closed tear along bottom of rear fore edge and minor creasing at bottom of rear panel. Jacket is preserved in mylar cover.
"No game has so long and rich a history as chess; more has been written about it than any other game. Curiously, however, little has been written about chesspieces. This profusely illustrated volume explores the evolution and development of the "tools" of the great game from the fifth through the twentieth century. F. Lanier Graham, Assistant Curator, Department of Architecture and Design of The Museum of Modern Art, provides a history of chess through his discussion of the design and meaning of the pieces, and thus presents a fascinating subject from a new vantage point. Of particular interest is the section on the more important modern sets, which presents Mr. Graham's view that contemporary designs offer a new reality to the ancient and revered game."