MEMO – Chess Brought to Life in Ceramics

Ceramics is one of the oldest and most vibrant forms of Georgia’s cultural memory. In our homeland, the tradition of clay processing dates back to the Neolithic period and continues to this day. Exquisite ceramic pieces are created in Georgia and sent to numerous countries worldwide. The Memo team actively contributes to the promotion of Georgian culture, working with partners to create unique ceramic items that grace many homes both in Georgia and abroad.

Behind every piece lies a complex and lengthy process. It takes approximately 20–24 days to manufacture these items, involving the labor of talented Georgian painters, sculptors, and ceramicists. The process begins with the ideation and concept, followed by design, sizing, and the selection of the color palette, the preparation of the clay, the shaping process, and painting, which requires immense focus and caution, it follows firing process in the kiln, where the piece is transformed—colors intensify, the work gains strength, the texture fills out, and the object truly “comes to life.”

In this blog, we will tell you about one of our most exceptional creations: Ceramic Chess.

Chess: A Union of Art and Intellectual Play

When you purchase a ceramic chess set inspired by “The Knight in the Panther’s Skin,” you are buying more than just an aesthetic object; you are buying deep cultural meaning. This is one of those rare works that breathe life into Georgia’s ancient epic poem through ceramics. Each figure is inspired by the poem’s characters, and their creation requires the utmost precision.

The chess pieces are handcrafted and hand-painted, with a carefully selected color scheme that creates a unified masterpiece. The elements and quotes inscribed on the figures are inspired by this ancient world, and the character motifs are linked to Georgia’s most precious literary heritage.

This chess set translates the aesthetics and symbolism of Shota Rustaveli’s era into modern ceramics, giving it a fresh form. Here, the chessboard becomes a space where literary metaphors take on a tangible shape. When you touch a handmade clay figure, you feel a connection between the past and the present. It is a translation of Rustaveli’s genius into our reality—whether through the process of play or as a unique interior design element. The “Knight in the Panther’s Skin” chess set is a way to turn Georgian cultural identity into a piece of art in our homes.

In our second ceramic chess model, the use of color is particularly striking. The white pieces blend elegantly with the colored figures, creating a vivid visual dynamic. The game board is also a part of this overall aesthetic. Created by Memo’s partners, this chess set’s uniqueness adds individuality and character to any interior, introducing elements of art into the living space. Imagine how impressive the arrangement of white and colored figures looks during the heat of battle on the board.

The combination of functional chess, art, and aesthetics makes this the perfect gift for those who appreciate Georgian culture, unique handcrafted items, and limited-edition pieces that hold life, meaning, and emotion. These sets are often chosen as wedding gifts, birthday presents, or as souvenirs to take abroad to showcase the richness of Georgian culture.

We conclude this blog with some exciting news: Memo is beginning work on a new chess concept unlike any other in existence. This project will take several months to complete and will be themed around a significant event in Georgian history. With its completion, another unique masterpiece will be added to the treasury of Georgian culture.