Vintage Chinese Dragon & Phoenix Banquet Suite – Exceptional Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Dining Ensemble

Details

Description

An extraordinary and one-of-a-kind Chinese banquet table and eight-chair ensemble showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and an astonishing level of hand-executed mother-of-pearl … Read more An extraordinary and one-of-a-kind Chinese banquet table and eight-chair ensemble showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and an astonishing level of hand-executed mother-of-pearl inlay throughout. When I first saw this table and chairs, my jaw dropped.

This complete nine-piece suite features a round banquet table supported by a dramatic dragon-form pedestal base with deeply carved openwork, dragon heads, and individually rendered scales enhanced with mother-of-pearl inlay. The table is accompanied by eight matching chairs, each richly decorated on the front, back, and sides with finely engraved and hand-cut mother-of-pearl panels.

The decorative program is remarkably cohesive and symbolic, featuring traditional Chinese dragon-and-phoenix imagery, Double Happiness symbols, longevity motifs, Greek-key borders (leiwen), floral elements, and scrolling cloud patterns associated with prosperity, harmony, and marital happiness. The dragon and phoenix pairing—representing husband and wife—appears throughout the suite, reinforcing its connection to traditional Chinese wedding symbolism.

What distinguishes this ensemble is not simply the presence of mother-of-pearl, but the extraordinary density, precision, and consistency of the inlay across every component. Finely engraved shell panels depict intricate figural, floral, and symbolic scenes, while the level of decoration extends beyond the tabletop to the pedestal, chair backs, chair aprons, and reverse sides of the chairs—an uncommon feature rarely seen in comparable dining suites.

Acquired from an antique furniture dealer on Hollywood Road in Hong Kong in 2001, the suite has remained in a private California collection and has been carefully maintained. The tabletop has been protected with a custom glass cover to preserve the integrity of the inlay.

A commanding statement piece for a grand dining room, collector's residence, luxury hospitality setting, or interior inspired by Asian decorative arts. Modernize the suite with white leather chairs to complement the mother-of-pearl.

Includes:
• One round banquet table
• Eight matching chairs
• Custom glass tabletop protector

Condition:
Very good overall condition with extensive mother-of-pearl inlay substantially intact throughout. Minor wear consistent with age and use. Additional photographs available upon request. See less