Pair of Antique Ottoman Moorish Abalone Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Pedestal Tables

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Description

An exceptional and highly unusual pair of antique Ottoman Moorish pedestal tables, handcrafted in Turkey during the late 19th century, … Read more An exceptional and highly unusual pair of antique Ottoman Moorish pedestal tables, handcrafted in Turkey during the late 19th century, circa 1880. Distinguished by extensive mosaic decoration incorporating iridescent abalone shell, mother-of-pearl, carved bone and contrasting fruitwood, these remarkable octagonal tables represent a particularly elaborate example of Ottoman and Islamic decorative craftsmanship.

Each pedestal features an octagonal tray-form top surrounded by a raised rim and supported by eight slender architectural legs. Nearly every visible surface is decorated with individually cut pieces of shell, bone and wood arranged in intricate geometric compositions. The combination of materials creates a richly layered surface that changes according to the surrounding light. The abalone reveals subtle flashes of green, blue, violet and silver, while the mother-of-pearl provides a softer luminous contrast against the warm reddish-brown fruitwood. Carved bone elements add definition to the complex geometric borders and repeating panels.

The decoration is not merely painted or applied ornament. Each small component was cut, fitted and placed by hand to create repeating stars, interlaced lines, linked borders, arabesque-inspired motifs and architectural panels. This labor-intensive technique required exceptional precision, particularly across the multiple facets of the octagonal bodies. The result is a pair of tables that appears richly detailed from every direction.

The designs reflect the mathematical balance, symmetry and repetition associated with Ottoman, Moorish, Andalusian and broader Islamic decorative arts. Although closely related, the two tables retain minor variations expected from individually handcrafted antique furniture. These subtle differences in inlay placement, coloring and construction confirm their artisan-made character and give each pedestal its own identity.

Each table measures approximately 32.5 inches high, 22 inches wide and 23 inches deep. Their height and architectural presence make them suitable as display pedestals, tall side tables, sculpture stands or decorative plant stands. They could flank an entryway, sofa, console, fireplace or architectural opening. They would also provide a dramatic symmetrical arrangement beneath tall windows or on either side of an important work of art.

The pair would complement an Ottoman, Moorish, Islamic Revival, Mediterranean, Spanish Colonial or globally collected interior. Their geometric decoration also creates an effective contrast within a more restrained contemporary room. Because the octagonal design is intended to be appreciated from several angles, the tables are particularly successful in a large entry hall, library, formal living room or gallery-like space.

Authentic antique inlaid furniture incorporating abalone, mother-of-pearl and bone is considerably rarer than furniture decorated exclusively with wood marquetry. Finding two related late-19th-century examples of this size and complexity is especially uncommon. The costly materials, extensive handwork, matched scale and survival of the pair explain their higher value and make them particularly attractive to collectors of Ottoman furniture and Islamic decorative arts.

The listing is for the complete set of two pedestal tables. Both were handcrafted in Turkey during the late 19th century, circa 1880. They remain in good antique condition, with wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses, small areas of missing inlay, surface variations and aged patina are present. These characteristics are expected in intricately inlaid furniture of this age and should be documented clearly in the photographs. Please review all images for a complete understanding of their condition.

Correct attributes

Category: Pedestals
Sold as: Set of two
Style: Moorish
Origin: Turkey
Period: Late 19th Century
Date: Circa 1880
Materials: Fruitwood, abalone, mother-of-pearl and bone
Techniques: Handcrafted, hand-carved, mosaic inlay and marquetry
Condition: Good antique condition; minor losses and wear consistent with age and use See less