Editors choice: 5 the most magnificent Backgammon sets
- Editor
- Mar 7
- 3 min read
Backgammon, an ancient yet timeless game, demands a balance of strategy and patience. This two-player challenge unfolds on a classic board, housed in a refined case, fully lined with boar leather or marine calfskin.
Its origins are somewhat debated, but it likely dates back around 5000 years in Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq). Its
influence soon spread globally. It was enjoyed by prominent leaders of ancient civilizations, such as Emperor Claudius and Nero, who were avid players. However, Backgammon is regarded as one of the most universal games today. It doesn't require language or numerical skills, nor cultural knowledge to excel at it. The rules are quickly learned, and the game can be enjoyed for a lifetime.
In ancient times, the original materials for Backgammon included wood, stone, ceramic, and bone (either human or animal) for the dice. As Backgammon's popularity grew, enhancing its stylish reputation, meticulously crafted and luxurious boards began to be produced, often more as collector's items than as functional game sets. Exquisite materials such as sleek ebony, shimmering mother of pearl, veiny marble, smooth leather, and pure gold are among those used for these boards, which Emperor Claudius could only have dreamed of despite having a backgammon table installed in his chariot for long journeys. The game naturally complements the Italian tradition of toasting, both emphasizing the art of slowing down and savoring the moment.
DIOR
Honoring the passion for the art of playing, which never ceased to inspire the founding couturier's life and collections, Dior Maison unveils a backgammon set in three exclusive models. Presented in a large format, two cases showcase embroidered canvas with the signature Toile de Jouy motif on one and the Dior Oblique print on the other. A drawing is also found on the small version crafted in embossed leather in a gentle shade of powder pink. Featuring two sets of fifteen pieces engraved with Dior's lucky gold-tone star, two pairs of dice, a doubling cube and two dice shakers, these objects of desire will guarantee unforgettable moments of sharing and togetherness. This sophisticated nod to the House's playful heritage is a joyful symbol of boldness and freedom.
LORENZI MILANO
A challenge for two from Lorenzi Milano, whose sophisticated battlefield is the traditional board enclosed in an elegant case, entirely lined in boar leather or marine calfskin.
Everything inside is skilfully handmade using some of the finest natural materials: the accessories include 2 leather dice rollers, 2 traditional dice and 1 double die, 15 checkers carved from white Australian mother of pearl and another 15 in grey Tahitian mother of pearl, the same precious materials used to make the distinctive triangle inserts on the game board. At the end of the game, the case closes with a lock and a key, until you are ready to roll the dice on your next exciting game.
NICK PLANT
Nick Plant has explored his love for craft for many years. When he was just 18 years old, he started buying and selling furniture on King’s Road before opening a shop on Westbourne Grove selling bespoke designs. He’s worked with industry names such as William Wallace and George Sherlock, the latter of which he helped to develop the first Howard-inspired chair. Our selection of Nick Plant sees him cast his creative eye to the world of board games. He does everything by hand in the UK, from etching to dyeing, using specially sourced leather. And as he only creates 10 of each design, every piece is a true limited-edition collectible.
RALPH LAUREN HOME
Offering a luxurious take on classic games, the Ralph Lauren Home Parkwood set is designed for the enjoyment of backgammon and checkers. A solid brass inlay lends a touch of shine to the refined case, which is crafted from mahogany wood and detailed with Ralph Lauren’s iconic tartan pattern.
ASSOULINE
A true reflection of Assouline’s dedication to quality and culture, the Backgammon Set presents a graceful twist on an enduring classic. Designed with the discerning aesthete in mind, this set serves as both a source of entertainment and an eye-catching statement piece. Housed in a rich walnut wood case, the inlaid leather board and leather pieces with brass accents promise an exceptional playing experience. The Backgammon Set was recognized by ELLE Decor as one of the most elegant games of 2025.
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