Draughts Set — Ox Bone

Real ox bone, not resin. This hand-carved draughts set is made from genuine ox bone — the same material craftsmen have used for game pieces for over a thousand years. Each disc is 2cm across and 5mm thick, with a satisfying weight and a natural warmth that no synthetic material can replicate.

A Brief History of Draughts

Draughts — known as checkers in North America — is one of the oldest board games in the world. Its origins trace back to around 3000 BC in ancient Egypt, where a similar game called Alquerque was played on a 5x5 grid. The game spread through the Arab world and into medieval Europe, where it evolved into the 8x8 format we recognise today. By the 12th century it was being played across France and England, and by the medieval period it was a common pastime in taverns, great halls, and on campaign.

Game pieces of this era were frequently made from bone — ox bone in particular — carved by hand and worn smooth with use. This set is made the same way.

Set Details

• 24 ox bone draughts pieces (12 per side)
• Hand Made Leather Pouch worth £15
• Each piece: 2cm diameter x 5mm thick
• Full set weight: 105g
• Handmade — each piece varies slightly as it’s a natural product
• Does not include the Bone and Horn Chess Board.

Perfect For

• Medieval reenactment events
• Living history displays
• LARP and cosplay
• Travel, camping and festivals
• Unique gifts for history lovers

Hand-carved in my workshop in South Wales 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 — each piece varies slightly in shape and colour as it’s a natural product.