Lot #R344. Limited Edition Michael Ricker Cast Pewter Circus Chess Set

Description Limited Edition Michael Ricker Cast Pewter Circus Chess Set. This exceptional limited-edition set of Michael Ricker Circus Chessmen, intricately detailed gold plated and Pewter circus-themed figures. The King stands an imposing 5″ tall with a 1-3/8.nase. These cast pewter chess pieces were created circa 1980 by Michael Anthony Ricker (1940–2006), the celebrated Colorado sculptor and pewter artist whose studio in Estes Park produced some of the most sought-after American pewter sculpture of the late 20th century. Ricker began working in pewter in the late 1960s and became internationally recognized for his meticulously detailed limited-edition figural works. His themed chess sets—particularly the ambitious Circus series—are among his most ambitious and desirable creations. These Michael Ricker Circus Chessmen comprises the full complement of 32 circus-themed pieces: 16 in classic pewter finish and 16 with rich gold plating for striking visual contrast when arrayed on the board. The circus theme is delightfully realized in every figure: Kings — Top-hatted ringmasters in tailored coats, one arm raised, brandishing a long whip Queens — Elegant female performers in graceful pose Bishops — Whimsical clown bishops with ornate, tall headdresses on pedestals Knights — Dynamic horse heads with decorative bridles and manes Rooks — Ornate circus ticket-vendor huts, complete with flags and architectural detail Pawns — Jjesters in traditional motley and caps The king stands a commanding 5 inches tall with a 1-3/8-inch diameter base, giving the set substantial board presence and sculptural weight. All pieces are hand-cast in pewter using the lost-wax precision techniques for which Ricker’s studio was known. Michael Ricker Circus Chessmen were produced in a limited edition of 250 in the late 1970s to early 1980s; 1980 is the date most frequently associated with surviving documented examples. The condition is excellent throughout, with crisp detail preserved in the casting. The set is offered as 32 pieces only; the original chessboard and the elaborate circus-wagon display base (with coachman and zebras) that accompanied some complete editions are not present. The Spanish veneer chessboard shown is included, A suitable chessboard can be found here. About the Artist Michael Anthony Ricker was a self-taught and talented Colorado artist who elevated pewter casting from souvenir craft to fine art. The King stands an imposing 5″ tall with a 1-3/8″ diameter base. Working with innovative molding techniques developed in partnership with Norb Bartlett, he created thousands of limited-edition sculptures that found homes with presidents, celebrities, athletes, and serious collectors worldwide. His larger narrative works (including the monumental “Park City” miniature village) and his series of themed chess sets demonstrate both whimsy and technical mastery. After Ricker’s passing in 2006, his family continued aspects of the legacy through Designs by Ricker, but original pieces from his active decades remain the most prized. The Michael Ricker Circus Chessmen stand out even among his own output for its theatricality, humor, and sculptural quality. Complete examples that include the wagon and base are exceptionally rare. These pristine pieces offer an accessible yet still highly desirable entry into Ricker’s chess work. A wonderful conversation piece and a whimsical addition to any collection of figural or themed chess sets, this these Michael Ricker Circus Chessmen brings mid-century American pewter artistry and big-top whimsy together in one striking ensemble.