How do I care for an inlaid wooden table?

Maintain the timber and inlay by applying a minimal amount of microcrystalline wax rather than liquid polish, which can loosen small pieces of bone or brass. Keep the item away from direct heat sources and strong sunlight to prevent the dense hardwoods from splitting and the historic adhesives from drying out.

Are octagonal tables stable on carpets?

Many traditional octagonal tables utilise folding bases that rely on precise interlocking wooden panels for support. Placing them on uneven flooring or thick carpets can sometimes affect their overall balance. Ensure the folding mechanism sits squarely on a firm surface to prevent unnecessary strain on the wooden hinges and joints.

How do I distinguish regional styles?

Regional identification relies on observing the specific combination of timber, carving style and inlay materials used by the workshop. Hoshiarpur pieces generally show dense micro-mosaic brass and wood inlay on octagonal folding frames. Kashmiri items often substitute heavy carving for painted lacquer decoration on walnut or lighter woods, while Burmese works tend to display deep figural relief carving in padauk.