COLLECTIBLE CHESS PIECE
for Auld Lang Syne
LIMITED EDITION OF 200
One of my great pleasures in life is running, chairing and performing at Burns Suppers, making Robert Burns and his works a big part of my life, well beyond Burns season. Perhaps then, it was no surprise, that once we had introduced our Battle of Bannockburn Chess Set to the world, out thoughts would turn to a hero of a quite different kind.
And so was born the Robert Burns Chess Set.
As with the Bannockburn set, all 32 chess pieces are different, each one representing a different part in the jigsaw of the life and works of the world’s favourite poet.
On that board of life, within a cornucopia of choice, one special chess piece has always attracted attention. Auld Lang Syne. Robert Burns could never have imagined what the 24 lines of that simple but dynamic poem would go on to mean to millions upon millions in every corner of the world, encapsulating as it does, a unique blend of nostalgia - from childhood, through adulthood, until inevitable separation, in whatever form life demands.
With the impact of Auld Lang Syne on millions the world over, it is no surprise that it should be the first in our new “Heroes of Scotland” range of collectible figures.
This stunning, solid pewter figurine represents the parting of the ways for two friends from the time and place of Robert Burns. The first, a farming lad from the rolling fields of Ayrshire, could have been Burns himself. But he’s not. Instead, he simply represents the joy, hope and mischief of the circle of his closest friends and companions.
The hand of friendship he offers, is taken by his life-long friend, now a Sergeant in the Black Watch (Royal Highland regiment) in full uniform, as he prepares to travel to distant lands, not knowing his destination or, indeed, if he will ever return.
We chose our Black Watch soldier, to represent every Scottish soldier who ever left his homeland with the silent wish and prayer of coming home.
With the sure and certain knowledge that Black Watch soldiers, past and present - would one day pick up one of these pieces with their own scrutiny, we went to great lengths to accurately represent the soldier and uniform of the time.
It was then our honour and privilege to be invited to visit the Black Watch Castle and Museum in Perth and spend time with Major (retired) Ronnie Proctor, 40-year Black Watch veteran and Management Committee Member of Friends of the Black Watch. Who better then, to cast a critical eye over our fine soldier?
It gives us pride to say that we had done not too badly, as attested by Major Proctor, who complimented us on our homework. He was able, nonetheless, to offer priceless direction on detail with which we were able to refine something great, into something exceptional.
Now we present our “for Auld Lang Syne”, one of the most beautifully crafted and sincere gifts of lasting friendship, as the first in our new line of celebration, “Heroes of Scotland!” which launches in spring 2025.
This solid Pewter figure comes in its own presentation box embossed with the legendary words “for Auld Lang Syne”. With the poem itself and “the gift of friendship” printed on the inner lid, the two friends are bound in the box with a Black Watch Tartan Ribbon.
The ultimate gift of friendship
This solid Pewter figure comes in its own presentation box embossed with the legendary words “for Auld Lang Syne”. With the poem itself and “the gift of friendship” printed on the inner lid, the two friends are bound in the box with a Black Watch Tartan Ribbon.
Collectible chess piece, one of 200
Whether to mark a parting, a reunion or simply confirm a friendship; as a simple ‘farewell’ or ‘hast ye back’; as a celebration of life, or of love; or to mark a special occasion in the 2025 Burns season - only 200 pieces will be available from the 1st of January. After which it will be spring 2025, before we take the next generation of Auld Lang Syne (and other heroes of Scotland) to the rest of the world, to discover how far our fine soldier and sincere friend will travel – then, as it was in the later 1700’s - with hope and a prayer.
Limited-Edition Auld Lang Syne Chess Piece
UK & EU £94.80 (including 20% VAT)
Rest of the World £79
All with free door-to-door delivery
Please note, import charges may apply at the destination country or state.
This is the responsibility of the customer.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please get in touch.