The Art of Chess
Explore the world of chess through humorous caricatures, capturing the drama and rivalry of championship matches.
Chess, especially in the 20th century, was a popular subject for caricature artists. These often humorous portrayals captured the drama and excitement of world championship matches.
World Chess Championship Tournament Caricature (1948) by B. EfimovInternational Chess Federation (FIDE)
Chess as a battleground
After Alexander Alekhine's passing, the 1948 World Chess Championship was held to determine a new champion. Mikhail Botvinnik emerged victorious, ushering in an era of Soviet dominance.
In the caricature by B. Efimov, the championship resembles a medieval jousting match. Three Soviet knights—Botvinnik and Smyslov on their horses, with Keres atop an elephant—face off against two Western contenders. American Samuel Reshevsky rides a chariot drawn by both horse and elephant, while Dutch player Max Euwe is lurking from the tower in the form of a chess rook. In Russian, the bishop chess piece is called 'an elephant', explaining this exotic choice of transportation.
Caricature of Champion Botvinnik Waiting for a Challenger (1950) by FIDE archiveInternational Chess Federation (FIDE)
Botvinnik waiting for a challenger
A few years later, Botvinnik waited for a challenger. Soviet grandmasters David Bronstein and Isaac Boleslavsky, co-winners of the 1950 Candidates Tournament, fought for the right to face Botvinnik in a tie-break match. Bronstein ultimately emerged victorious.
Sword fight
In 1961, Mikhail Botvinnik sought to reclaim his World Championship title from Mikhail Tal. After losing it a year prior, Botvinnik exercised his rematch right, defeating Tal and re-establishing his dominance. The match became the subject of numerous caricatures.
Tal vs. Botvinnik Caricature - First Round (1961) by FIDE archive and G. KovanovInternational Chess Federation (FIDE)
In this caricature by G. Kovanov, Mikhail Tal and Mikhail Botvinnik are depicted as boxers starting their first round.
Tal vs. Botvinnik Caricature - Last Round (1961) by FIDE archive and G. KovanovInternational Chess Federation (FIDE)
In the continuation of the series, Mikhail Botvinnik is proclaimed the champion after the last round of the boxing.
Tango in Reykjavík
The 1972 World Chess Championship between Robert Fischer and Boris Spassky, came down to history as "The Match of the Century". This contest fueled the imaginations of caricature artists.
Envelope with a caricature and stamp commemorating the World Championship Match Fischer vs Spassky (1972) by FIDE archiveInternational Chess Federation (FIDE)
All hail the new king
The winner of the match, Robert Fischer, tall and proud, is followed by the previous champion, Boris Spassky, who is short, sad, and carrying Fischer's mantle.
Chess Splits in Two
Another sword fight, and this time it is the 1993 match between Kasparov and Short. This match outside of FIDE's control marked a pivotal moment in chess history as it led to the existence of two parallel world championships until 2006.
As we wrap up our look at chess caricatures, we've only scratched the surface of this fascinating art form. Yet, this collection gives us a glimpse into the creative artistry that brings chess history to life.
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