Chess Players

Date1951

MediumIntaglio print on paper

DimensionsObject/Work: 410 x 416 mm

ClassificationsArtworks/Commemorations/Photographs

Terms

Object numberPT0056

DescriptionEdition 20/25

During the 1940s Evans' work began to explore anti-war themes and often incorporated highly-coloured, semi-figurative and abstract forms. Some works are based on specific incidents such as in this print, titled 'The Chess Players', the first study of which dates from 1940. It is inspired by the 1939 non-aggression pact between Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia. The image depicts two semi-abstract figures playing chess, and represent two Soviet and Nazi politicians, Vyacheslav Molotov and Joachim von Ribbentrop, respectively.

The first study for 'Chess Players' (1940) is held by Bolton Library and Museum Service (BOLMG:1998.205). A colour drawing version of this print is also held by Newport Museum & Art Gallery, Wales (NPTMG:1983.6.2).

(Benjamin Angwin - October 2014)

On View

Not on view

Collections