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The Ponziani is based on the simple idea of attempting to build a strong pawn centre at Q4(d4) and K4(e4). Although suitable for beginners and club play, it is rarely seen at master level except as a surprise tool, for Black can easily counter White's central plans. Initial moves follow the "Épine Dorsale" until White's 3.P-QB3(c3) move 3w (left) in support of a planned 4.P-Q4. |
| First given by Italian priest and law lecturer Domenico Ponziano (1719-1796), who lived in Modena (also home of Del Rio and Lolli). His 1769 book summarised the style of open play that became known as the "Modena School" - fast development followed by direct attack on the enemy king. | |
| Popular until the 1840's (when better ways for Black to repulse such play began to be developed), the Ponziani is nowadays regarded as an irregular (ie. rarely played) king's pawn opening. | |
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1. P-K4...P-K4 White attempts to occupy the centre with his King's Pawn, opening diagonals for his KB and Q and attacking squares Q5(d5) and KB5(f5). Black has the same idea, replying with a mutual King's Pawn in an open defence (so termed because in an open game the centre tends to become opened up by pawn exchange rather than blocked by close play). 2. Kt-KB3...Kt-QB3 White brings his King's Knight closer to the centre and attacks a pawn, as per the golden rule: always develop with attack if possible. Black defends the pawn and develops his Queen's Knight. |
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