Irving Amen “Chess Board” Signed Mid-Century Modern Color Woodcut

“Chess Board” by Irving Amen brings together stylized chess pieces and geometric color in a composition with a clear Mid-Century Modern character. Two crowned figures stand at the center, surrounded by knights, rooks, bishops, and pawns arranged across rectangular fields of orange, muted blue, pale yellow, green, and black.

The woodcut uses contrasting silhouettes and expressive details to give each piece its own presence. The central figures have angular faces and patterned crowns, while the knights introduce curved horse-head profiles among the straighter forms. Short lines run through the colored backgrounds, adding texture and movement to the otherwise flat areas of color.

Rather than showing a conventional chessboard in perspective, the image places the pieces within an irregular grid. Changes in scale and alternating light and dark forms create a balanced arrangement that reads clearly from across a room. Up close, the smaller marks and decorative details give the print more to explore.

The lower margin is signed “Amen” at the right and titled “Chess Board” at the left, where an edition notation also appears. A broad charcoal-colored mat with a narrow reddish inner accent surrounds the paper margin. The gold-tone frame features black edging that repeats the strong outlines within the artwork.

The framed size makes it an easy fit above a writing desk, beside a bookcase, or within a gallery wall. Its subject suits a study or game room, while the graphic composition pairs naturally with Mid-Century Modern furniture, warm wood finishes, and understated upholstery.

Overall framed dimensions: 25″ W × 18.5″ H. Interior image area: approximately 18″ W × 13″ H.

Condition: age appropriate wear, vintage finish, discoloration, see photos.

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