Object of the Day: An Antique Chinoiserie Inlaid Table

In England, during the early parts of Victoria’s reign, furniture designers looked toward other cultures for inspiration. One area of fascination was the work of Asian craftsmen. English artists tried to incorporate Asian designs into quintessentially English furnishings.


This heavy wooden table reflects those influences. Four hand-carved legs scroll into delicate volutes which support hand-turned spindles upon which four inverted, scrolled brackets rest. This cage-like design surrounds a massive hand-lathed pedestal. Surrounded by a delicate ogee, the table top has been meticulously inlaid with a Chinese-inspired pattern of Mother-of-Pearl. The luminescent pearl takes the form of dragons amidst glowing clouds and is surrounded by a geometric pattern.

The French referred to this emulation of Chinese style as “Chinoiserie.” Popular in France during the late Eighteenth Century, the Chinoiserie style was later embraced by English designers. This table dates to the early 1820’s. With its rich ebony color and shimmering Mother-of-Pearl, this table makes a dramatic statement. Displayed on a round Persian rug, I’ve made this table the centerpiece of my entryway. It’s also, as you can see, Bertie’s central station. Perfect to nap under, this table also serves as a resting place for his toys which he likes to stuff into the spindles. I can’t speak for why Bertie is so fond of this piece of furniture, but for me, I’m in love with its magnificent craftsmanship and historical significance.