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Symmetrical position

Chess composition is one art form where full visual symmetry is not highly regarded! This is because it may indicate repetition of thought. But symmetry nevertheless does have its place. One common situation is where a vertically symmetric arrangement of pieces admits only a single asymmetric key, because the central column is nearer to one side of the board. So apparent symmetry is paradoxically broken to give dual removal.

Symmetry may be vertical, horizontal or rotational. It may be aligned with the board centre or not. Kings and queens may be deemed to count the same or different. The symmetry may inverse all black & white pieces, or keep them the same.

The distinction between (1) symmetric position and (2) symmetric constellation is this: given one half of the diagram, and the axis/point of symmetry, can one construct the other half uniquely? If yes, then (1) if no then (2).

Compare the following earlier definition: A position is "symmetrical position" if it merges into itself by mirroring it on a straight line (axis symmetry) or by rotating 180 degrees around a point (point symmetry). There are pieces of the same color and kind on the fields that merge into one another. [Complete symmetry according to Dawson & Pauly]