Chessmen (32) 1917

This set of 32 chess pieces, titled "Chessmen (32)" was created in 1917 by Max Nicholas Niemeier. The unique set is housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, and features detailed busts of individuals in various headwear and attire. The use of busts for chess pieces is a unique and visually striking element of this set, reflecting the artist's interest in the human form. Each piece, standing on a pedestal, is sculpted with a distinctive individual personality, lending a sense of history and drama to the classic game of chess.