Nicholas Theodore Miniati
Editor of the chess column in the "Manchester Weekly Times", and the magazine "Chess Review" which published five editions in 1892-1893.
A strong amateur player, he came third in Amsterdam B (1889) and third-fifth in the 5th Congress of the BCA, London, 7-19th, November 1889 behind Bird, Gunsberg and Mason.
In 1890, he was defeated in a match by Emanuel Lasker (+0 =2 -3), Lasker - Miniati (1890).
"Lasker, meanwhile, having defeated Bird in a match in February, was said to have challenged Blackburne next. "Pending Mr Blackburne's decision, Herr Lasker will engage in a shorter match with Mr N.T.Miniati, the well known Manchester amateur." (1)
"MINIATI, of Manchester, had the distinction of being the only amateur who had the courage to play a set match with Lasker, champion of the world, and certainly the most astute champion the world has ever seen. Of course Miniati fell, but he fell forward, with his face to the foe. Outside the professional arena Miniati was the strongest amateur of his day, and his editorial work is too well known to need recapitulation here, but it was chiefly in the end game that he was brilliant. Some of his finishes were truly gorgeous in their Eastern magnificence and splendour. In a match game he electrified the spectators announcing checkmate in seven moves.
Here was the position:—
'Termination of a match game at Blackburn (Lancashire) ...N. T. Miniati. In the above position white announced mate in seven moves. " (2)
Kibitzing
