Mid-Century Syrian Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Rectangular Coffee Table

47”W x 20”H x 39 1/2”D

A commanding example of Levantine craftsmanship, this large-scale coffee table (likely Damascus, c. 1950s–1970s) fuses traditional Ottoman-era decorative arts with a strict, modernist geometry. The piece is defined by its architectural silhouette—a sharp, rectilinear inverted-U form—creating a bold presence suited for grand interiors.

The substantial wood frame features a deep, glossy dark walnut stain, serving as a reflective canvas for intricate ornamentation. Hand-cut mother-of-pearl tesserae are inlaid across the top and cascading down the sides in a drifting, asymmetrical composition of floral rosettes and scattered blossom motifs. The iridescent shell catches the light with varying intensity, creating a luminous contrast against the rich darkness of the wood grain.

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Historically, such pieces were the collaborative effort of master family workshops in Damascus, designed to serve as the centerpiece of a formal majlis or reception room. This specific table represents a mid-century evolution of the craft, moving away from dense, all-over patterns toward more open, graphic designs that appealed to international modernist tastes.

The surface retains a high polish but exhibits honest wear consistent with age and use. As detailed in the images, there is visible chipping and wear to the lacquer at the sharp corners and base edges, along with surface scratches and some historical loss to individual shell inlay elements. These imperfections attest to the table's age and do not compromise its structural integrity.

Damascus

1950s - 1970s