Chess in 18th & 19th century in Britain
In the mid-late 18th century, there was an upsurge of interest in the game. It seems to coincide with a general improvement in the quality of work produced by master craftsmen, including turners and carvers. More ivory seems to have become available and was used in the making of high quality artefacts, including chessmen.
A number of new firms were established in London who made chess sets. Many designs of the late 18th century were developed and improved. Some famous makers and sellers included Charles Hastilow, John Calvert, John Jacques and Lund.