Ancient discoveries are one of its kind, and holds higher significance today. After hosting many auctions for unique historical remains, Sotheby’s Auction, recently sold a historic relic from the Viking Age. Reportedly, bought in 5 euros, (approximately, Rs. 388) in 1964 by an Edinburg family, the ancient piece of Lewis chessmen was sold for a whopping 735,000 euros (above Rs. 5.7 crores). It set a new record for a medieval piece at the auction house. The picture of the 900-year-old piece is creating a buzz on social media. Amedeo Modigliani’s Nude Painting “Nu couché (sur le côté gauche)” Raises More Than $157 Million at Sotheby’s Auction. 

The Lewis Chessmen are a group of distinctive 12th-century chess pieces, which the British Museum claims were probably made in Trondheim, Norway. The set includes seated kings and queens, bishops, knights and standing warders, the ancient version of rooks on a modern chess board. They are seen as a significant symbol of European civilization. The Edinburg family’s grandfather, uncovered this ancient piece in 1964 and he bought it for 5 euros. They are an antique dealer, who had no idea of the importance of this Lewis chess, measured 8.8 cm in the piece. The family cherished it for 55 years, before taking it to Sotheby’s Auction house in London. Three Moon Rocks Auctioned at New York! Lunar Samples Sold for Around Rs 6 Crore. 

View Pics of Ancient Lewis Chess Piece

The auction house’s expert Alexander Kader, who examined the piece, said his “jaw dropped,” when he realised what they had in their possession, reported BBC. The newly-discovered chess piece is explained as a warder, a man with helmet, shield and sword, holding, “immense character and power.” In the same report, Kader was quoted saying, “It has been such a privilege to bring this piece of history to auction and it has been amazing having him on view at Sotheby's over the last week - he has been a huge hit. When you hold this characterful warder in your hand or see him in the room, he has real presence.”

Despite knowing its significance and value, the Edinburg’s family had treasured it for several years. The previous owner’s late grandmother believed it to have magical qualities. Around 82 pieces of Lewis chessmen are owned and exhibited by the British Museum in London and the remaining 11 are at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. Including the chess pieces, the hoard also has 14 “tablemen” gaming pieces and a buckle. The hoard was uncovered in 1831 and ever since then one knight and four warders have reportedly been missing from the four combined chess sets.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 03, 2019 10:17 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).