Intro to World Championship Chess Boards
Chess has been played for centuries, and over the years, the design of the chessboard used in World Chess Championships has undergone several changes.
In the early years of the World Chess Championship, which began in 1886, various types of chessboards were used, including ones made from materials such as wood, ivory, and marble. However, in 1924, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) standardized the design of the chessboard, settling on a design known as the Staunton pattern, which has since become the most widely recognized and commonly used design for tournament play.
The Staunton pattern chessboard was named after the English chess player Howard Staunton, who was a leading figure in the chess world in the mid-19th century. The Staunton pattern chessboard features a checkered pattern of alternating light and dark squares, with the light squares typically being white and the dark squares being black. The board is typically made from materials such as wood, plastic, or stone, and is often accompanied by a set of Staunton pattern chess pieces.
In more recent years, electronic chessboards have become increasingly common in World Chess Championships. These boards are designed to automatically record the moves played during the game, which can be useful for both players and spectators. One popular brand of electronic chessboard used in World Chess Championships is the DGT electronic chessboard, which features sensors in each square to detect the movement of the pieces.
Why wooden chess boards in World Championship?
Wooden chess boards have been a popular choice for centuries due to their aesthetic appeal, durability, and practicality for playing the game.
One of the key reasons why wooden chess boards are used is that they provide a sturdy and durable playing surface that can withstand the rigors of frequent use. Wood is a strong and resilient material that can resist warping or cracking over time, which makes it an ideal material for a game that requires a flat, level playing surface.
In addition to their durability, wooden chess boards are also highly valued for their aesthetic qualities. The natural patterns and textures of different types of wood can create a beautiful and visually appealing playing surface, which can enhance the overall experience of playing the game.
Another reason why wooden chess boards are popular is that they offer a practical and tactile surface for playing the game. The natural texture of the wood provides a good grip for the pieces, which can be important for players when moving the pieces around the board. Additionally, wooden chess boards often feature a thin layer of felt or fabric on the bottom, which can help to keep the board stable and prevent it from sliding around on the table during play.
Overall, wooden chess boards are a popular choice due to their combination of practicality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. While other materials such as plastic or stone can also be used to make chess boards, wooden boards continue to be a favorite among many players and are commonly used in tournament play around the world.
Overall, the design of the chessboard used in World Chess Championships has evolved over time, but the Staunton pattern remains the most widely recognized and commonly used design for tournament play.
