Victorian Hastings Chess Tournament 1895 — Original Signed Presentation Photograph — Brown, Barnes & Bell

An exceptionally rare and historically vital original late Victorian presentation photograph depicting the Hastings Touring Chess Team during the celebrated 1895 Hastings International Chess Tournament era—widely acknowledged as the "Golden Age" of British and international chess history.

This is a genuine, period presentation piece (not a modern reproduction) produced by royal photographers Brown, Barnes & Bell ("Photographers to the Queen"). Housed in its original Edwardian/Victorian oak frame complete with the original framer's trade label on the reverse ("Herbert Mann, Hastings").

Historical Hand-Signed Autographs: Features multiple original period fountain pen ink signatures across the card mount beneath the photograph, including key historic chess personalities:

  • H.F. Cheshire — Author of the legendary Hastings 1895 Chess Tournament Book

  • H.E. Dobell — Long-serving Secretary of the Hastings Chess Club

  • F.W. Womersley — Noted Victorian chess competitor and columnist

  • Additional team signatures including A.G. Ginner, J. Fitzpatrick, Chas G. Skyrme, C.G. Gardiner, and E.J. McCormick.

Item Specifics:

  • Event: Hastings Chess Tournament / Hastings Chess Team (Circa 1895)

  • Photographer: Brown, Barnes & Bell (Photographers to the Queen)

  • Frame: Original Victorian Solid Oak Frame (Herbert Mann, Hastings Label on Reverse)

  • Total Framed Dimensions: Approx. 62 cm x 53 cm

Condition Report (Very Good Historical Condition):

  • Photograph Surface: The original central silver gelatin print retains excellent clarity, deep contrast, and rich tonal depth with no fading or moisture damage.

  • Mount & Signatures: The card mount shows uniform age-related toning/patina which enhances the contrast and legibility of the original dark ink signatures.

  • Oak Frame & Glass: The heavy oak frame remains tight, rigid, and structural with light surface handling marks consistent with its 130-year age.

Shipping & Courier Delivery:

  • Fully Insured Courier Delivery: Dispatched via fully tracked, insured courier service. Custom double-walled wooden/cardboard box packaging with heavy corner protection.

  • International Buyers: Shipped worldwide via eBay Global Shipping Program or fully insured tracked courier with buyer-selected postage rates.