Antique Nested Tables

By steikerg, 10 May, 2025
Description

Black lacquer nested tables with mother of pearl inlay and gold leaf decoration. Ornate castle scenes and checkerboard depicted on tabletops.. 

Category
Furniture
Medium
Wood, black lacquer, gold leaf and mother of pearl.
Distinguishing marks
Ornate idyllic castle scenes and checkerboard.
Condition
Good
Size and dimensions of this item
Height: 28.5 in, Width:22.0 in, Depth 15.0 in.
Date Period
1920
Weight
15-20 lbs
History
These tables have been in my family since I was a child. Acquired by my stepmother, who collected antiques, in about 1957. Tables were quite old at the time of purchase.
Price Paid (If known)
Inherited
For Sale?
Yes
Photos

NaidaTheCollector

3 weeks ago

Item Description:

  • Type: Set of three nested tables
  • Style: Asian export (likely Chinese or Korean influence), Chinoiserie
  • Materials: Wood, black lacquer finish, hand-painted gold leaf motifs, mother of pearl inlay
  • Top designs:
    • One features a castle scene with landscape and foliage
    • One includes a checkerboard motif with floral borders
    • One displays a romantic country or palace scene, all framed in floral gold detailing

Period & Origin:

  • Estimated to be from circa 1920s, aligning with the Chinoiserie revival and export furniture popularity
  • Likely of East Asian origin, produced for Western markets (e.g., British or American export) in the late Qing Dynasty to Republic of China period, or similar decorative work from Korea
  • The crackle lacquer finish, mother-of-pearl inlay, and stenciled gilt work are characteristic of that period

Construction & Features:

  • Tapered legs with stylized paw feet
  • Beautiful condition with some wear and aging to the lacquer — notably crackle patterns, common and even desirable in aged lacquerware
  • Each table fits neatly under the next (classic nesting structure)

Condition:

  • Good antique condition
  • Some scuffing and wear consistent with age (particularly on the top surface of the largest table)
  • Mother of pearl inlay and hand-painted gold leaf remain well-preserved and vibrant

Estimated Current Market Value (USD):

Market Context

Estimated Value

Private Sale or Estate Auction

$400 – $700

Retail Antique Dealer Price

$700 – $1,000+

High-End Asian Furniture Auction

Up to $1,200

 

Market Notes:

  • Sets like this are highly collectible, especially when complete and well-preserved
  • Mother of pearl inlay significantly enhances decorative value
  • Popular with collectors of Oriental Revival, Art Deco, and Chinoiserie furniture

Recommendations for Sale:

  • Ideal venues: Chairish, Ruby Lane, Etsy (Vintage section), or LiveAuctioneers
  • Describe as:
    “Antique Black Lacquer Nesting Tables, Circa 1920, Mother of Pearl Inlay & Gold Leaf, Chinoiserie Style – Castle & Checkerboard Scenes”
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