Playing pieces From the Gloucester Tables Set
Each is about 45mm in diameter, possibly 11th Century. For a fuller discussion of the pieces, and the story, follow the link. In time we plan to publish on this site a full account of this unique and important find.
The Gloucester Tables Set is the oldest complete backgammon set known to exist. It was found in 1983 on the site of William the Conqueror's Castle at Gloucester.
All thirty of the counters were recovered. These were carved from antler and bone. Most of the designs are matched in other Romanesque art of the period, although some are apparently unique.
In the photograph can be seen: an archer with a crossbow, a centaur with bow (Sagittarius), a running figure carrying a fish and bird who may represent 'February', a man juggling hoops, two birds, and a female with her arms outstretched - perhaps the Virgin Mother or Virgo.
The board itself was of wood and inlaid with bone plates to form a playing surface. Only the richly decorated bone has survived.
