Chess Column: Laurent

by Albert Frank

Michel Laurent

As in the two previous chess columns, I will try to show that's chess is an art form. This time I will show a beautiful combination played in Belgium in 2001 by Michel Laurent, a friend of mine.

Michel, who was playing black, had reached a superior position (first diagram below). The White King looks in danger, Black is already a pawn up. Black can win a second pawn on d4, or even a piece if he plays:

1. …Qf1+ 2. Qxf1…Nxe3+.

But all the elements are there for a mate — there is a forced mate in (maximum) 6 moves. Here it is: 1…Qf2+!! 2.Bxf2…Rxf2+ 3.Kh3…Rxh2+ 4.Kxg4—Nf6+! 5.Kf3—e4+ 6.Ke3 —Bh6 mate!

In the final position [second diagram], the three remaining black pieces (A rook, a bishop and a Knight) have a role in the mate, together with the pawn on e4. One could say that everything is perfectly harmonious, like in some paintings or music.

Initial Position

Final Position