Ceylonese Specimen Wood Occasional Table

Ceylonese Specimen Wood Occasional Table

This remarkable centre table exemplifies the artistry and elegance of 19th-century Ceylonese craftsmanship, featuring intricate inlay and refined detailing typical of the period. The piece evokes a sense of exotic sophistication, blending indigenous woods with time-honoured woodworking traditions.

Origin: India (Ceylon) Date: Circa 1850 Material: Calamander Wood, Ebony

Dimensions: Height: 71 cm (28 ins)
Width: 68 cm (26.5 ins)
Depth: 68 cm (26.5 ins)

Condition: Excellent patina, minor age-related surface wear

The Ceylonese Specimen Wood Occasional Table stands as a testament to the rich heritage of colonial-era furniture, resonating with the same attention to craftsmanship found in celebrated South Asian collections. Closely related to pieces displayed at the Victoria & Albert Museum, its use of rare specimen woods and meticulous workmanship typifies the sought-after accent tables produced for distinguished homes across Britain and the Empire in the mid-19th century.

Notable Features:

• The octagonal top showcases a masterful inlay of specimen indigenous woods, each segment highlighting the natural beauty and variation of Ceylon's timber.
• Bordered by intricately carved calamander wood, the tabletop’s detailing draws the eye, while echoing the refined lines typical of Regency and Colonial design.
• The sturdy, turned solid ebony base is both functional and decorative, its graceful profile raised on four bun feet that lend stability and period elegance.
• An exceptional example of Ceylonese accent tables, this centre table is a rarity, not only for its combination of calamander and ebony but also for its desirable form and scale—highly prized among collectors and interior specialists alike.

Ideal for use as a centre table in a drawing room, library, or for a curated collection, this specimen wood occasional table will elevate any space with its unique provenance and decorative appeal. Its historical significance, coupled with practical sturdiness, ensures it remains as relevant for the connoisseur today as it was for its original owner over 170 years ago.