How do these folding tables work?

The base consists of interlocking wooden sections that pivot on a central pin or hinge arrangement. This allows the support structure to fold flat into a compact unit. The octagonal top then lifts off or collapses down onto the folded base for easy storage or transport.

Where were these tables made?

Many originate from craft centres in India, particularly Hoshiarpur, while others emerge from Burmese workshops or reflect Syrian and Moorish revival styles. British makers also produced occasional octagonal folding furniture during the Georgian and Victorian periods.

How do I care for inlaid surfaces?

Dust the carved and inlaid wooden surfaces regularly with a soft, dry brush to prevent debris from settling in the recesses. Avoid using liquid polishes that can loosen bone or metal inlays. Maintain stable humidity levels in the room to protect the wood and prevent the natural materials from shifting.

What periods do these tables cover?

The selection spans from the late eighteenth century through the Victorian era and into the early twentieth century. Most examples date from the late nineteenth century up to nineteen-thirty. Earlier pieces typically show Georgian cabinetmaking, while later items focus on colonial export styles.