The 1880-90’s Jaques “In Statu Quo” (type III / Ivory) Chess-Board by “Jaques of London”.

What they did…

Here is a rare and impressive example of the Large Jaques Type III “In Statu Quo” Travel Chess Set—a premium, oversized version of Jaques of London’s ingenious patented design. When opened, the board measures 12¾″ x 12¾″, featuring red-stained and natural ivory chessmen. The King stands ¾″ tall with a 1″ diameter base. The name “Jaques & Sons Makers, London” is imprinted on a brass plaque inset along one edge of the frame.

This particular set features Jaques’ patented locking mechanism, allowing the player to pause a game mid-play. By pressing two bone buttons—one located on each half of the folding board—the chessmen, fitted with slotted brass pegs, are securely locked in place. An internal release button allows the game to resume later with the position perfectly preserved. The board itself is crafted from Rosewood and Holly veneers, framed in polished mahogany.

The patent for the “In Statu Quo” mechanism was filed on July 2nd, 1853, with the application dated the day before. The patent was granted on August 16th, 1853.

Jaques produced four standard sizes of the “In Statu Quo” travel chess sets, each offered in two configurations and available with either red-stained and natural bone or African ivory pieces. All sets came housed in black leather travel cases, featuring a gold-embossed Jaques emblem and a slider indicator beneath the flap to show which side was to move (red or white). Most cases originally included a pull-ribbon to assist with removing the board—although few of these have survived intact.

Type I – 9⅛″ x 9⅛″

• King: ⅝″ tall × ⅞″ diameter
• Most common size
• Two case styles: one standard parallelepiped; the other with a rounded spine and lid on top for storing captured pieces

Type II – 11½″ x 9⅛″

• Same pieces as Type I
• Additional fields at each end to hold captured pieces
• Did not utilize the rounded spine case
• Considered the most practical for play and transport

Type III – 12⅝″ x 12⅝″ (The example shown here)

• King: ¾″ tall × 1″ diameter
• Single leather case design with flap at the short end and pull-ribbon for board removal

Type IV – 16⅝″ x 12⅝″

This model is famously seen in the “death photo” of World Champion Alexander Alekhine. Largest version, also included space for captured pieces. Distinctive large leather case with flap covering the long face

My opinion of this design…

This large Type III set is highly desirable among collectors—not only for its rarity and size but also for the mechanical sophistication of its locking system. A fine blend of craftsmanship, innovation, and historical legacy, it remains one of the most iconic travel chess sets ever produced by Jaques of London. This is by far, one of my favorite set in my collection and just a treat to play with on the road.