Discover the exquisite artistry of this 20th-century Syrian side table. As a stunning example of Damascene craftsmanship, this piece is designed to be a focal point in any interior.
Key Features:
The hexagonal tabletop immediately captures the eye with its complex geometric patterns, meticulously created from mother-of-pearl and fine wood inlay. A central rosette blossoms into a field of light blue and cream-colored shapes, showcasing the revered sadeli mosaic technique.
The table’s elegance extends to its base, which features:
- Six gracefully curved legs.
- Intricate mashrabiya latticework panels below the tabletop.
- Moorish-style arches connecting the legs, all adorned with further inlay.
Standing approximately 90 cm tall, this versatile piece serves beautifully as a side table, lamp stand, or decorative hall table, bringing a touch of historic Moorish design and exceptional craftsmanship to your home.
An Early to Mid-20th Century Syrian Hexagonal Side Table in the Damascene Style
This is an expertly handcrafted hexagonal side table, originating from Syria and dating to the 20th century. The piece stands as a remarkable example of traditional Damascene craftsmanship, showcasing intricate inlay techniques.
The tabletop is profusely decorated with a complex geometric micro-mosaic pattern, featuring a central multi-pointed star rosette. This central motif is surrounded by a radiating pattern of interlocking hexagons and triangles, rendered in light blue, brown, and cream-colored inlays. The primary materials for the inlay are shimmering mother-of-pearl and various contrasting woods. The tabletop is framed by multiple borders of delicate geometric inlay, including a prominent zigzag motif.
The table is supported by six elegant, saber-style legs. These legs are connected by a series of Moorish arches that form the apron. The apron itself is adorned with panels of fine mashrabiya-style latticework, demonstrating exceptional skill in woodworking. The legs and arches are further embellished with mother-of-pearl inlay in repeating geometric patterns, consistent with the design of the top.
The main structure is crafted from a dark wood, likely walnut, which provides a rich contrast to the iridescent inlay.
Condition: The table presents in very good condition, consistent with its age and use. There is a minor area of discoloration on one of the inlaid panels of the tabletop, possibly from a past restoration or age-related changes. The structural integrity is sound.
Dimensions:
- Height: approx. 90 cm
“Damascene” refers to a highly skilled and intricate style of inlay decoration that is famously associated with the city of Damascus, Syria. While the term can describe the inlay of gold or silver into steel, in the context of furniture it refers to a specific woodworking tradition. Damascene furniture craftsmanship involves inlaying materials like mother-of-pearl, bone, ivory, and various precious woods into a solid wood base, typically walnut. The defining characteristic of this style is its creation of extremely dense and complex geometric or arabesque patterns, showcasing a mastery of precision and design.
Mother-of-pearl is the iridescent inner lining of the shells of certain mollusks, such as oysters and abalone. It is prized for its shimmering, rainbow-like luster that changes color when viewed from different angles. For centuries, artisans have carefully cut and shaped thin pieces of this material to inlay them into solid objects, most commonly wood or metal. This technique creates intricate, luminous patterns that contrast beautifully with the base material, adding a touch of opulence and artistry.