What is an oriental octagonal coffee table?

These are eight-sided low tables influenced by Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern design traditions. They were produced primarily during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Craftsmen utilised regional woods and applied techniques such as bone inlay, hand-carving, and metal tops to create decorative surfaces for domestic interiors.

How were these tables used originally?

Many of these pieces began as occasional, lamp, or side tables rather than dedicated coffee tables. They sat in parlours and drawing rooms to hold decorative objects, lamps, or tea. Over time, owners and dealers adapted many of these lower tables for use as coffee tables in contemporary sitting rooms.

What materials should I look for?

The listings feature dense timbers like teak, rosewood, and general hardwoods, often ebonised for a dramatic dark finish. Surface decoration frequently incorporates bone, mother-of-pearl, brass, and copper. Lacquer and painted finishes also appear on pieces influenced by Chinese export styles and Edwardian chinoiserie.

How do I identify the period?

Dating relies on stylistic markers combined with timber choice and construction methods. Victorian and Edwardian examples often display specific revival styles like Moorish or Anglo-Indian colonial work. Nineteenth-century pieces generally show deeper hand-carving and heavier construction compared to later twentieth-century iterations.

How do I care for inlaid wood?

Inlaid surfaces require gentle dusting with a dry or slightly damp cloth to protect delicate bone and metal elements. Avoid harsh chemical polishes that can seep into crevices and loosen small pieces of inlay. Keeping the table away from direct heat sources and strong sunlight preserves the timber and prevents the wood from warping.

Home > Antiques For Sale > Oriental Octagonal Coffee Table > Page 2

Oriental Octagonal Coffee Table

17 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

An oriental octagonal coffee table brings intricate regional carving and geometric form into a room, offering a distinct surface for daily use.

Chinese Carved Octagonal Occasional Table

19th century

Save

Chinese Carved Octagonal Occasional Table

From LTANTIQUES.CO.UK

£395

FOR SALE

tables

← 1 2 →

Oriental Octagonal Coffee Table

Chinese Carved Octagonal Occasional Table

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Period

Style

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Recently Added

Online Payments

Categories