Fine Syrian Mother-of-Pearl Marquetry Games Table

Damascus, c.1890–1910

A rare late Ottoman luxury games table, richly inlaid and architecturally conceived.

An exceptional Syrian marquetry fold-over games table, crafted in Damascus at the turn of the twentieth century. The top is intricately inlaid with hand-cut geometric mosaic work in walnut, cedar, fruitwoods, ebony and mother-of-pearl—each tessera individually applied in the traditional late Ottoman manner.

The hinged top opens to reveal a beautifully detailed backgammon field, together with a later baize-lined surface for cards or chess. The table is raised on elegant cabriole legs with deep banded aprons and an architectural stepped pendant.

Provenance & Cultural Context

Tables of this quality were produced in Damascus for discerning Ottoman households and for export through leading Western retailers such as Liberty & Co. in London during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The scale, fold-over mechanism and level of marquetry align with the finest surviving examples.

Condition

Very good antique condition with expected age-related wear. Inlay almost entirely intact. Later blue baize to interior. Structurally sound and ready for use.