Hnefatafl: Viking Chess

History and Lore Hnefatafl (translation Hnefa - Fist or King  tafl - table game)  Archaeologists have unearthed gaming objects from Viking boat burials, the earliest from the 7th Century. Most of these consist of checker-like pieces made from glass, bone, wood, or amber. Some are shaped like discs, while some are more ornate figurines, primarily uniform in shape and size, except for one stand-out king piece known as the hnefi. Symbolism in this version  The white stag is known in Norse culture as the protector of the borders between worlds. I placed this symbol in the corners of the board as the king is trying to escape to sanctuary.  In search of knowledge Odin traveled to Mimir's well located at the roots of Yggdrasil, the World Tree. He asked for a drink of water and was refused unless he sacrificed one of his eyes. I have made the game pieces look like the eye of Odin. Odin's riddle to King Heidrek    In the Saga of Hervor and Heidrek, the King summons his enemies to court. Gestumb