Why the Staunton standard became the benchmark for all chess sets

Leisure

Hundreds of types of chess sets currently available in stores can baffle anyone with their materials, sizes, and other criteria. But if you look closely, most of them have a common appearance, which is already standard — Staunton.

At one time, this style was so appealing to the chess community for its practicality and elegant appearance that sets designed according to the standard began to be used everywhere: at championships, in chess clubs, and even in online tournaments.

The Staunton standard has stood the test of time and has become almost synonymous with the phrase “professional chess set” and there are a number of reasons for this.

The creation of the Staunton standard

Until the mid-19th century there was a huge variation in the shapes of chess pieces, with each country making them according to their own unique designs. But this variety just created problems because in international competitions it was hard for opponents to tell apart or even understand what pieces were in front of them — this inevitably led to confusion and unpleasant arguments. 

Later, in 1849, British architect and sculptor Nathaniel Cook presented his universal design for the pieces, which he also managed to patent at the office. The standard got its name from the famous chess player of the time, Howard Stanton — he helped promote the design.

It is also worth mentioning: the first set was produced in 1849, and some collectible copies are still kept in the British Museum; auction visitors were able to buy chess pieces for £5,000.

Why Staunton became the standard

Staunton pieces were designed with ease of recognition in mind:

• The king is the tallest, with a cross on his head.
• The queen is slightly shorter, with a crown.
• The rook is a tower with battlements.
• The bishop has a mitre-shaped head.
• The knight has an expressive horse’s head.
• The pawn has a minimalist shape.

Even a quick glance can help a chess player orient themselves on the board, and this has become important for tournaments where a tournament chess set is used — during such matches, the speed of decision-making is critical, especially in rapid formats. 

Balance and ease of play

Pieces made according to the Staunton standard have a weighted base and a stable shape, so there is no fear of them being knocked over during confident moves or emotional play. This is extremely convenient, especially during matches on a professional chess board, and allows players to reach their full potential without restrictions.

It is also worth mentioning that the modification of pieces by weighting has become the standard in the manufacture of the world chess championship chess set — it’s now used in almost all international tournaments.

Support from FIDE and world championships

In the 20th century FIDE approved Staunton’s design as the standard for all chess sets used in tournaments and world championships. A striking example of the use of the Staunton set was the 1972 World Championship match, when Fischer and Spassky faced each other using a set made in Iceland. The set itself was manufactured according to the strict standards of both the federation and Staunton and since then this style has been considered mandatory for world championships.

Comparison of standard characteristics

Aesthetics and versatility

In addition to its practicality, the Staunton style has its own special charm thanks to its concise forms. Chess sets designed in accordance with this standard always look beautiful both at tournaments and at home on a chess table set.

Timeless design also appeals to collectors, who often prefer handmade wooden sets as the characteristic shape of the pieces remains unchanged, regardless of whether they are purchased individually or as part of a complete chess set with a board.

Production and culture

Now we can say with confidence that Staunton has become an example for the entire modern market. Any chess store has boards and pieces in this style in their assortment. Therefore, if you want to visit chess shop to buy chess boards or are looking for “chess pieces for sale” (or “chess boards for sale”) in online marketplaces, be prepared to encounter a bunch of different variations of Staunton sets; you will see classic tournament sets, decorative versions of  international chess board for the home, and portable lightweight sets — for every taste and purpose.

At the same time, the chess set price will vary depending on the material of manufacture, so if you really want to buy chess set, remember — the form always remains unchanged. 

Contemporary developments

With regard to materials, it can also be added that different manufacturers continue to improve the standard, but never compromise its essence. In particular, new materials for manufacturing have appeared, such as ebony, beech, rosewood, as well as plastic for making a tournament chess board.

Some companies even produce limited editions of world championship chess boards that are exactly like those used in the world championships between famous grandmasters. And, of course, they all meet international requirements for size, balance, and color of the squares. 

Why Staunton is still relevant today

• Versatility: suitable for players of all levels — from amateurs to grandmasters.
• Functionality: the proportions are balanced for practical play.
• Aesthetics: the simplicity of the lines makes the set beautiful in any interior.
• International recognition: used in all official FIDE tournaments.
• Compatibility: all manufacturers use the same dimensions, which is convenient when replacing pieces or buying new ones.

The Staunton shape is the best guide

170 years of evolution, recognition by official organizations and chess players from around the world — that’s what the Staunton standard is all about. Its design and practicality conquered the chess community and opened a new page in the history of chess, securing a stable and durable standard that has remained for centuries.

So it doesn’t matter whether you’re choosing a world championship chess set or just want to buy a beautiful world championship chess board for your home — the Staunton shape is the best guide.