What is a syrian side table?

A syrian side table is a low, intricately decorated occasional piece featuring geometric woodwork and detailed surface inlay. They were imported or inspired by Middle Eastern designs during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. These tables typically take octagonal or hexagonal forms, and many are designed with clever folding bases for easy storage. They served as decorative accents in Victorian and Edwardian drawing rooms.

How do I identify a period piece?

Period pieces from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries display genuine hand-cut bone or mother-of-pearl secured into solid hardwood foundations like walnut. Look closely at the joinery and the natural ageing of the materials. Later reproductions often use synthetic substitutes or machine-cut veneers rather than individual tesserae. Examine the underside and interior joints for traditional construction methods appropriate to the era.

Were these tables used for games?

Many surviving examples double as specialised games tables featuring integrated boards for chess, backgammon, and card playing. The folding or reversible tops allowed owners to transform an ordinary occasional table into a gaming surface. These multifunctional pieces demonstrate the practical versatility demanded by Victorian households. The interior compartments often stored playing pieces safely when not in use.

How do I care for inlaid wood?

Inlaid surfaces require a stable indoor environment away from direct heat sources and excessive moisture fluctuations to prevent timber movement. Gentle dusting with a soft, dry cloth is sufficient for routine maintenance. Avoid using modern liquid polishes or silicone-based cleaners, which can seep beneath the delicate bone and shell sections. Specialist wax may be applied sparingly by an expert to nourish the dry wood.