The French Lardy chess set by “Lardy International”.
What they did…
Lardy International was a prolific French chess set manufacturer based in Dortan in the French Jura, known for producing quality chess sets that have left a lasting impact on the chess world. Unfortunately, the company ceased operations in the late 1980s, succumbing to the pressure from the influx of low-quality chess sets flooding the market from Indian manufacturers operating in makeshift factories in the Amritsar region.
Lardy’s success in the chess set market was significant, but it also paved the way for Indian manufacturers who began to erode Lardy’s market share starting in the late 1960s. While Lardy primarily used Jura boxwood, they also employed materials like maple, softwoods, and even horn. Their wood finishes were typically natural or black lacquer, depending on the wood species used. In contrast, Indian manufacturers often used less expensive waxed and oil finishes, combined with much lower labor costs, allowing them to produce and sell chess sets at much lower prices than Lardy.
The first reference to Lardy chessmen in the U.S. appeared in the 1933 edition of Isaac Kashdan’s Chess Review. Lardy chessmen were offered in various configurations, including felted and unfelted, as well as weighted and unweighted variations. These sets ranged in size from small sets with a 2-3/4” King to large Club-size sets with King heights over 4-3/4”. From the 1930s through the early 1970s, Lardy dominated the chess set market, selling massive numbers of chess sets to the USA and England, where they were commercialized by brands such as Cavalier, Drueke, Lowe, Sterling, and others.
The molds of Lardy chessmen served as the basis for the ubiquitous “Club Special” plastic chessmen found in chess clubs and tournaments worldwide. Although Lardy may no longer be in operation, its influence and legacy in the chess world remain significant, with many chess enthusiasts still seeking out these classic sets for their quality and historical value.
My opinion of this design…
In my opinion, every serious chess collector should have at least one original French Lardy set in their collection. These chess pieces are among the best playable designs in the world, known for their timeless elegance and functionality. The French Lardy has inspired and influenced countless chess set designers, leaving an indelible mark on the world of chess.
The French Lardy design is revered for its balance and aesthetic appeal, making it one of the hardest designs to reproduce accurately. Despite numerous attempts by various manufacturers, very few (if any) have managed to properly replicate the original French Lardy. The subtlety in its craftsmanship and the quality of materials used make it a unique and irreplaceable set.
For those who appreciate the history and artistry of chess, owning an original French Lardy is a must. It’s not just a chess set; it’s a piece of chess history that has stood the test of time. If you want to experience the true essence of this iconic design, you’ll need to seek out an original set, as nothing else comes close to matching its authenticity and charm.
