The Cooke Boxwood Chess Set is a faithful reproduction inspired by the celebrated 1849 Cooke design, regarded as the foundation of the modern Staunton pattern. Associated with Nathaniel Cooke and endorsed by Howard Staunton, this historic design transformed chess equipment through its clarity, balance, and practicality. Crafted from premium boxwood and ebonised wood, this set captures the elegance and character of the romantic era of chess while remaining perfectly suited to modern play.
Each reproduction set is meticulously crafted to honour the original Jaques Staunton design, combining historical accuracy with exceptional quality.
3-year guarantee on all reproduction sets
Supplied with certificate of authenticity
Exclusive reproductions available only through our company
Honouring the past. Crafted for today. Made to endure.
Our reproduction Jaques chess sets are rooted in one of the most important developments in chess history — the introduction of the Staunton pattern in 1849. Designed by Nathaniel Cooke and endorsed by Howard Staunton, these pieces quickly became the standard for organised play and remain so to this day.
At Staunton International, our focus is on faithfully recreating the character and proportions of those early Jaques sets. Original examples from the mid-19th century are now rare and highly sought after, valued not only for their craftsmanship but for their historical significance.
Developed with close attention to original mid-19th century Jaques examples.
The defining knight shapes, proportions, and character are carefully preserved.
Designed to be used as well as admired, with practical balance and familiar Staunton clarity.
Hand-finishing reflects the subtle variation found in genuine antique chessmen.
Produced using woodworking methods that respect the character of early Staunton pieces.
A considered choice for collectors, regular players, and meaningful gifts.
Each reproduction is developed to preserve the defining features of early Jaques sets — from the form of the knight to the balance of each piece. Rather than aiming for a uniform modern appearance, we prioritise a more natural finish that captures the depth and individuality of early Staunton chessmen.
These sets offer the opportunity to experience a style of chess equipment that has remained largely unchanged for over 175 years — practical, balanced, instantly recognisable, and deeply connected to the origins of modern chess.
