Reflection of the Historical Epoch in Miniature Sculpture of the 13th Century Mongolian Chess Figures

Mongolian chess figures from the 13th century, likely crafted during Hulagu Khan's military campaigns to the Middle East (1217–1265), reveal a unique blend of military strategy and artistic expression. These miniature sculptures, with faces modeled after real kings, suggest that chess was used as a tool for learning tactical warfare. The Buddhist style of the figures indicates that Ogedei Khan, who established Karakorum (Kharkhorin) in the Orkhon Valley, was likely represented in these sets. This study builds on previous research by dating the chess figures more precisely and analyzing their cultural significance within the Mongol Empire's historical context.

Syrtypova, S.-K. D. (2018). Reflection of the Historical Epoch in Miniature Sculpture of the 13^th Century Mongolian Chess Figures. Orientalistica, 1(2), 209–236. https://doi.org/10.31696/2618-7043-2018-1-2-209-236