Getty Museum

Book of Chess Problems

Date

late 14th century

Medium

Tempera colors and gold leaf

Culture

French

Department

Manuscripts

Institution

Getty Museum

The *Bonus socius*, known as the "Good Companion," is a manuscript that immerses readers into the intricate world of medieval chess. Within its pages, detailed diagrams depict various chess scenarios and their corresponding solutions. But this manuscript is more than a mere guide to chess; it's a journey through the history and evolution of this timeless game. The title "*Bonus socius*" is drawn from the manuscript's prologue, where the author, in the spirit of camaraderie, undertook the labor of collecting and documenting a compendium of problems discovered in chess, dice, and morelles. This "Good Companion" stands as a testament to the dedication of chess enthusiasts in the pursuit of excellence in this strategic and intellectually stimulating game. Additionally, the manuscript traces the rich history of chess, connecting its roots to the ancient Indian game of chaturanga. As chess traveled from the East, it underwent a series of transformations that resulted in unique variations and strategies, defining the game during the medieval period. The text not only presents these chess problems but also provides valuable insights into the historical context and significance of each move. It captures the essence of chess as it was commonly played in the 14th century, a period when the rules were distinct from the modern iteration of the game that we know today. The standardization of chess rules began in the 15th century, marking the beginning of the game's evolution into its current form, a process that was further refined in the 19th century by a board of English and American Chess Masters.

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