Antique Syrian Damascus Octagonal Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Side Tables — Pair

A striking pair of antique Syrian octagonal side tables, richly carved in hardwood and inlaid with mother-of-pearl, produced in Damascus during the late Ottoman period for the European export market. Each table is constructed with deep relief geometric panels, pierced mashrabiya-style sections, Moorish arches, and turned baluster elements, all arranged within an architectural framework typical of high-quality Syrian craftsmanship of the late 19th to early 20th century.

The tops are particularly decorative, featuring complex interlaced carving and calligraphic roundels framed by scrolling vegetal motifs and inset mother-of-pearl details. The octagonal form allows the pieces to read sculpturally from every angle, making them effective as stand-alone accent tables as well as functional side tables. Their scale is substantial enough for modern use beside seating while retaining the intricacy associated with traditional Levantine furniture.

Pieces of this type were widely exported to Britain and continental Europe, often sold through luxury retailers catering to the Orientalist taste of the period. Today they are sought after by collectors, interior designers, and decorators for their ability to introduce depth, craftsmanship, and historical character into contemporary interiors. Used as a pair, they create strong visual symmetry; individually, they function as distinctive statement tables.

Dimensions

Height: approximately 66 cm
Across flats (side to side): 51.5 cm
Point to point (corner to corner): 59 cm

Condition

Good antique condition overall with age-appropriate wear. There are losses to some mother-of-pearl inlay elements, and sections of the mashrabiya and lower panels are missing, as commonly found on pieces of this type due to the delicacy of the carving. Structurally stable and fully usable, with surface wear, patina, and minor marks consistent with age and historical use.