What is an eastern inlaid table?

An eastern inlaid table is a decorative wooden or metal surface ornamented with geometric patterns formed from bone, mother-of-pearl, or contrasting metals. These pieces originate from regions including Syria, Egypt, and the broader Ottoman sphere. They encompass side tables, games tables, and multi-tiered stands created during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Each piece reflects specific regional design traditions such as Moorish Revival or Levantine styling.

How were these tables used originally?

These tables served various domestic functions ranging from casual surface placement to dedicated gaming for chess and backgammon. Many octagonal tables featured folding frames designed for easy storage or relocation within the home. Specialised forms also functioned as writing desks, Quran stands, or low coffee tables. Their portable nature allowed them to adapt to different rooms and social gatherings.

How do I care for an inlaid table?

Care requires maintaining stable indoor humidity levels to prevent the timber from warping and the delicate inlay from loosening. Dusting should be done gently with a dry, soft cloth without applying harsh chemical polishes. Applying occasional microcrystalline wax helps protect both the wood and the bone or pearl elements. Keeping the table away from direct heat sources and strong sunlight preserves the original materials.

How can I tell the period of a table?

Dating relies on examining the timber types, the style of inlay, and the construction methods used in the frame. Nineteenth-century examples often feature dense hand-carved details and specific regional motifs associated with Ottoman or Syrian workshops. Early twentieth-century pieces may incorporate modified hardware or lighter internal framing. Comparing the decorative vocabulary to established regional styles helps narrow down the decade of production.

Search 0

31,995 PAGES BROWSED TODAY PAGES TODAY • 24 ANTIQUES UPLOADED TODAYNEW ARRIVALS

Sorted by

Per page

VISITOR LOGIN JOIN AS A SELLER DEALER LOGIN

Saved

GIFTS

Eastern Inlaid Table

24 ITEMS ADDED TODAY

Visitor Login (saved items)

Sort Order

Items Per Page

Eastern Inlaid Table

18 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

An eastern inlaid table brings intricate geometric patterns and warm timber tones into a room, offering both practical surface space and centuries of regional craftsmanship.

Bohemian Style Octagonal Side Table with Mother-of-pearl

19th century

Save

Bohemian Style Octagonal Side Table with Mother-of-pearl

From Colton Antiques

£750

FOR SALE

tables

1900 - 1920

Save

Damascus Games Table

From Beechmount Antiques

£1,895

FOR SALE

tables

← 1 2 →

65,662

Antiques For Sale

Antiques Approved Today

4,815

Antique Uploads This Month

445,271

Total Antiques Sold

Eastern Inlaid Table

Bohemian Style Octagonal Side Table with Mother-of-pearl

Damascus Games Table

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Period

Style

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Recently Added

Online Payments

Categories