Persian chess and backgammon combo board with Khatam inlay and hand-painted miniatures. The miniatures feature a hunting scene, with horse riders and gazelles. The figures are dimensionally shaped and raised above the board surface. The combination of Khatam inlay and traditional Persian miniatures makes this board a true piece of art. Excellent vintage condition. Please note that this piece is sold without chess figures.
Dimensions when folded:
Length: 11.75" (30 cm).
Width: 6" (15 cm).
Height: 2" (5 cm).
Khatam (which means "to seal" in Persian) is one of the most elaborate woodworking techniques. It emerged in the days of the ancient Persian Empire and gained popularity during the 16th century. This unique form of marquetry features signature tiny geometric designs made of wood, metal, and bone. The tinier the design, the more skill involved in creating it. Thin rods of wood, bone, and metal are cut to roughly 1-2 mm thin and then bound together. The finished product sometimes features more than 400 pieces per square inch.
