Ivory, late 18th century.

This chess set’s two opposing armies are represented as British and Indian, with Brit red-coat chessmen on green bases, and Indians with green tunics on red bases. The use of red and green to distinguish chessmen was historically common in many parts of the world. In addition to culture and attire, the details on these figures may carry historical perceptions about conflict. For example, it can be observed that while the red-coat pawns carry muskets, their Indian counterparts carry small swords.

Chessmen (32). Holding Institution: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Image courtesy of the The Metropolitan Museum of Art. CC0 1.0.

Chessmen (32). Late 18th century. Ivory with lacquer and gilding. The Metropolitan Museum of Art. https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/200032