Queen Chess Piece

Queen Chess Piece

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Few medieval pieces in the form of Bishops, Kings, or Queens survive. The Queen was one of medieval Europe’s key contributions to the game of chess as it is known today. Beginning in the twelfth century, Queens gradually replaced the Viziers (male advisers to the king) of the Islamic and Persian chess tradition. Astride her horse and poised for battle, this Queen is surrounded by an entourage; some members of the group seek her aid.

Medieval Art and The Cloisters

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world. Displayed in both The Met Fifth Avenue and in the Museum's branch in northern Manhattan, The Met Cloisters, the collection encompasses the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome in the fourth century to the beginning of the Renaissance in the early sixteenth century. It also includes pre-medieval European works of art created during the Bronze Age and early Iron Age.