Koryphäen vom Schachkongreß Nürnberg.

Title

Koryphäen vom Schachkongreß Nürnberg.

The illustration shows luminaries (e.g., Mr. Bird, Mr. Paulsen, Mr. Roegner, Mr. Mason) playing chess during the chess congress in Nuremberg, 1883.

c. 1883

Artist

Daumerlang

Historical Description

The game of chess originated over 1,500 years ago in India. In the 6th century, a game called Chaturanga was developed there, which is considered the precursor of modern chess. Chaturanga spread through Persia, where it became known as Shatranj, then continued into the Arab world and eventually reached Europe. During the Middle Ages, the rules were further developed in Europe — for example, the queen (formerly known as the "advisor") gained her powerful moves. By the 15th century, the game had evolved into the form we now recognize as modern chess. Today, chess is a globally popular strategy game, played both as a leisure activity and in professional competition.