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This hand decorated Celtic Chess Set in a presentation box represents the Celts who were Western European tribes inhabiting north west France, Cornwall, Wales, the Isle of Man and parts of Scotland and Ireland. They lived in tribal settlements and only rarely did they combine against an external common foe, so deep rooted were their own bitter quarrels. In Ireland in 1014 the Irish Celtic tribes joined together under their High King, Brian Boru to fight the Vikings who were invading and colonising the Irish coastline. The Vikings in fact had built up quite a prosperous settlement on the River Liffey which became known as Dublin. The inhabitants were mainly merchants and traders and, becoming tired of Brian Boru's probing raids, summoned Viking reinforcements from Scandinavia. In an area called Clontarf, the two sides made a furious smashing onslaught on each other, hacking with axes and swords. Throughout the battle King Brian took no active part. He stayed in the rear protected by the shields of his retainers issuing orders and praying for victory. From his position at the rear he was able to see the Viking forces retreat and make a desperate dash for escape via the sea. Sensing victory the Celtic forces relaxed, although there were still many Viking groups on the battlefield. One group let by Brodar of Man managed to ride through the Irish ranks and suddenly and unexpectedly succeeded in reaching King Brian Boru. Brian tried to defend himself and struck Brodar with his sword severing his left leg at the knee and his right leg at the foot. Brodar managed to raise his mighty double headed axe and cleft Brian's head in half. So died these two warriors. The sculptors and designers of this hand decorated chess set in a presentation box have created from this historical event a beautiful chess set embodying many of the Celtic images and artefacts and characters of the period. Includes chess board. Design : Hand Decorated - Boxed King Height : 113mm / 4.5 Inches
Theme : Celtic Chess Set SKU : CS0025
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Theme Chess Sets
