Mao Zedong’s chess set

In 1952, Mao Zedong, the leader of China, presented a unique chess set to Professor V. Vasilenko, a renowned Soviet gastroenterologist and Chief Physician of the Kremlin Hospital, as a token of gratitude for his recovery. However, upon Vasilenko’s return to Moscow in November 1952, he became entangled in the infamous “doctors’ case.” He was arrested at the airport and taken, along with his chess set, to the KGB headquarters.Despite the false accusations of sabotage made by his colleagues, Vasilenko maintained his innocence and spent about six months in custody. The confiscated chess set remained in KGB possession during this time. After Stalin’s death, the “doctors’ case” fell apart, and Vasilenko was released. He was also given his chess set back.Professor Vasilenko wished for his unique chess set to eventually become part of a museum collection. In 2014, thanks to Grandmaster Yuri Averbakh, that wish was fulfilled.