A Distinguished Reproduction Celebrating One of Chess History’s Great Masters

The House of Staunton is proud to offer The Zukertort Luxury Chess Pieces, an exceptional Full Club Size reproduction of the famed Jaques Zukertort Chessmen. Exquisitely crafted from select Boxwood and Ebony, this heirloom-quality set pays homage to one of the most celebrated designs of the classic Staunton lineage. The imposing King stands 4-3/8" tall with a 1-7/8" diameter base - dimensions historically referenced in early Staunton-era advertisements as the true “Full Club Size.” (By comparison, the Small Club Size featured a 4.0" King with the same base diameter.)

Every piece in this remarkable set is heavily weighted and rests atop plush green billiard cloth base pads, ensuring excellent stability and a refined movement across the board. The Knights, carved in the distinctive Zukertort style, feature masterfully sculpted detailing, including drilled pupils, producing a lifelike expression and a level of artistry seldom matched in contemporary reproductions. The Kingside Rooks and Knights are properly stamped with a King’s Crown on their summits, faithfully preserving the traditional Jaques identification system.

About Johannes Zukertort

Johannes Hermann Zukertort (Jan Hermann Cukiertort), born September 7, 1842, was a German-Polish Grandmaster and one of the greatest chess talents of the 19th century. His relatively short life was filled with remarkable achievements not only across the chessboard but throughout an array of intellectual, artistic, and professional pursuits. A soldier, musician, linguist, journalist, and political activist, Zukertort possessed a rare combination of brilliance and breadth.

Zukertort learned to play chess at the age of 19 in Breslau and later studied under the legendary Adolf Anderssen. He quickly developed into one of the strongest players of his era, distinguishing himself not only in tournament play but also as an unparalleled match competitor. His notable triumphs included victories over Anderssen in 1871 and Joseph Henry Blackburne in 1881.

While Zukertort twice faced Wilhelm Steinitz - in 1872 and again in the inaugural World Chess Championship of 1886 - his chronic health issues hindered his endurance in long matches. Despite his eventual defeats, Zukertort’s talent remained unquestioned. His dominant performance in the 1883 London Tournament, where he won 22 of his first 23 games, is still regarded as one of the most extraordinary tournament feats in chess history.

Later Life and Legacy

After his defeat in the 1886 World Championship match, Zukertort’s health declined sharply, and his competitive results suffered accordingly. Though plagued by rheumatism, coronary disease, kidney ailments, and arteriosclerosis, he continued to play with determination and skill. On June 20, 1888, Zukertort collapsed during a game at Simpson’s Divan — ironically while leading the tournament — and died shortly thereafter from a cerebral hemorrhage. He was buried at Brompton Cemetery in London, where his legacy endures.

Johannes Zukertort remains one of the most iconic figures of classical chess, remembered for his artistry, depth of preparation, and unmatched brilliance in his prime. The Zukertort Luxury Chess Pieces stand as a fitting tribute to a player whose name is forever intertwined with the history and prestige of the Staunton design.

The Zukertort Luxury Chess Pieces - 4.4" King - From the Camaratta Collection