Ebony Wood Chinese Chess (Xiangqi) Set with Folding Board & Hand-Carved Pieces

Not a look-alike, Genuine Ebony. This set is handmade from genuine ebony (Diospyros), also known locally as "black rosewood" and it comes from Indonesia. Real ebony is one of the densest of woods in the world and that is what makes it a highly valued wood: it won't warp, it will hold its shape and it will gain luster with use. This one is not a dyed or stained substitute, which is most of the “ebony-style” chess sets available on the market.

A heartwood is a Jet-Black variety that has a Metallic Sheen. The near-black color and slight metallic sheen of the heartwood is not a finish; it's the natural effect of minerals in the tree's growing environment. When exposed to light, it will show a depth of colour that stained woods can't match.

Constructed to Last You a Long, Long Time. The close, even grain makes ebony naturally rot and decay resistant, and will not split or crack after decades of use, as it is best known for fine furniture and high-quality instrument fittings.

Foldable, Travel-Ready Design. When it is time to put it away for storage or a move, the carved board folds flat for easy transportation, and provides a tabletop-quality playing surface without the bulk of a fixed board. It comes in half the size of its open form when it's packed up for a tournament, friend's house, or even back into a closet.

An Authentic heritage fabric. Old-growth ebony is becoming rare and is now considered one of the world's best woods for making fine furniture and for craftsmanship, rather than for a game night.

Specifications

Note: Measurements are taken by hand and may vary by approximately ±0.4 in (1 cm).

FAQ

Is this a true ebony board or is it stained to appear as ebony?
This board is made of authentic ebony wood, not from any kind of stained wood. True ebony is naturally dark, dense and has a faint metallic luster, due to the mineral content and slow growth of the wood, rather than being darkened as often occurs with the surface.

What is the difference between 50# board size and 60# board size?
The 50# board is approximately 18.1 x 19.7in when unfolded, it fits better on smaller tables or travel. The 60# board is a more classic tournament style board, measuring approximately 21.3 x 22.8 inches. Either fold up to a small size for storage.

Is this set the pieces of the chess set or the chess board?
This is the list of hand carved folding ebony board and complete ebony Xiangqi (Chinese Chess) pieces.

What is the best way to preserve an ebony chessboard over time?
Ebony will require only simple maintenance, as all fine hardwoods do: stay away from direct sunlight, exposure to moisture for long periods, and a soft dry cloth to wipe. Don't use household wood polishes that contain a lot of solvents.

When the folding board is fully opened, will it lie flat?
Yes. The initial design was for the board to fold to a flat playing surface, and the fold seam is constructed to not stand out from the playing surface, thereby minimizing disruption to play and piece placement.

Does XIANGQI (Chinese Chess) equal international chess?
No. Xiangqi is not the same type of strategy game as international chess, it has its own board layout, types and movements of pieces. This set is specially created for playing Xiangqi.