Paul Wunderlich (1927–2010) is celebrated for his Surrealist-inspired paintings, prints, and sculptural editions, many of which explore mythology and the boundaries between the human and the fantastical. Among his most distinctive three-dimensional works is this complete bronze chess set and its accompanying table, produced circa 1978–1983.
Entitled Minotaur, the edition draws on the ancient Greek myth of the half-man, half-bull figure who wandered the Labyrinth of Crete — a timeless narrative of power, conflict, and duality. The thirty-two bronze chessmen are cast with opposing dark and light patinas, each one signed and numbered 1064/1500. Kings and Queens appear as tall, elongated beings, part human and part mythic. Knights take the form of rearing horses; Bishops rise like single feathers; Rooks stand as slim architectural totems; and Pawns coil into Labyrinth-like spirals.
The custom chess table is substantial and expertly constructed. The inlaid board sits flush within the surface, formed from alternating squares of maple and a contrasting dark wood veneer. The table stands on four stylised bronze supports, with a side plate bearing Wunderlich’s signature and the edition number 152/480.
Wunderlich was the recipient of major arts awards, including the Japan Cultural Forum Award and the Kunstpreis des Landes Schleswig-Holstein. His work is held in numerous international institutions, including the Museum of Modern Art, the British Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Chessmen:
King: 22.5cm H, 4.1cm W, 4.1cm D
Pawn: 8.6cm H, 3.8cm W, 1.2cm D
Excellent, minimal vintage wear.
Chess Table: 76.5cm H, 56cm W, 56cm D (Approx 26kg)
Table Top: 48cm W, 48cm D; extends to 87 cm with both drawers open
Very good vintage condition with light wear and visible signs of age -There is a split in the veneer on the underside of the table, but it does not detract from use or display.
Sourced from Austria.
Please note: Shipping is not included. A courier quote will be arranged and provided after purchase.
Paul Wunderlich (1927–2010) is celebrated for his Surrealist-inspired paintings, prints, and sculptural editions, many of which explore mythology and the boundaries between the human and the fantastical. Among his most distinctive three-dimensional works is this complete bronze chess set and its accompanying table, produced circa 1978–1983.
Entitled Minotaur, the edition draws on the ancient Greek myth of the half-man, half-bull figure who wandered the Labyrinth of Crete — a timeless narrative of power, conflict, and duality. The thirty-two bronze chessmen are cast with opposing dark and light patinas, each one signed and numbered 1064/1500. Kings and Queens appear as tall, elongated beings, part human and part mythic. Knights take the form of rearing horses; Bishops rise like single feathers; Rooks stand as slim architectural totems; and Pawns coil into Labyrinth-like spirals.
The custom chess table is substantial and expertly constructed. The inlaid board sits flush within the surface, formed from alternating squares of maple and a contrasting dark wood veneer. The table stands on four stylised bronze supports, with a side plate bearing Wunderlich’s signature and the edition number 152/480.
Wunderlich was the recipient of major arts awards, including the Japan Cultural Forum Award and the Kunstpreis des Landes Schleswig-Holstein. His work is held in numerous international institutions, including the Museum of Modern Art, the British Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Chessmen:
King: 22.5cm H, 4.1cm W, 4.1cm D
Pawn: 8.6cm H, 3.8cm W, 1.2cm D
Excellent, minimal vintage wear.
Chess Table: 76.5cm H, 56cm W, 56cm D (Approx 26kg)
Table Top: 48cm W, 48cm D; extends to 87 cm with both drawers open
Very good vintage condition with light wear and visible signs of age -There is a split in the veneer on the underside of the table, but it does not detract from use or display.
Sourced from Austria.
Please note: Shipping is not included. A courier quote will be arranged and provided after purchase.
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