Tortoiseshell Finish Coffee Table / Scalloped Edge Low Table
Table (Coffee Table) · Hollywood Regency / Postmodern (Circa 1970s-1980s) · In the style of Maitland-Smith, Milo Baughman, or DIA (Designer's Guild), known for exotic finishes in late 20th-century luxury interiors.
Type
Table (Coffee Table)
Style Period
Hollywood Regency / Postmodern (Circa 1970s-1980s)
Material
Wood core (likely hardwood or engineered wood) covered in a faux tortoiseshell finish, likely lacquer or resin overlay over paper, foil, or painted substrate.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970s-1990s postmodern revival era.
Dimensions
Estimated height 16-18 inches, width 48-54 inches, depth 24-30 inches. Typical range for a rectangular living room coffee table.
Origin
Likely American or Italian manufacture, popular in upscale interior design markets during the late 20th century.
Designer/Maker
In the style of Maitland-Smith, Milo Baughman, or DIA (Designer's Guild), known for exotic finishes in late 20th-century luxury interiors.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges from $600 to $1,800 depending on the exact maker, provenance, and pristine nature of the high-gloss lacquer finish.
Description
A stunning rectangular coffee table featuring a dramatic, high-gloss faux tortoiseshell finish that creates incredible visual depth and warmth. The piece is characterized by its distinctive scalloped apron and uniquely shaped legs, blending traditional silhouettes with bold, glamorous 20th-century decorative finishes. It serves as an instant focal point in a sophisticated living space.
Key Features
High-gloss tortoiseshell finish, scalloped apron design, sculptural legs, continuous patterned surface without visible hardware.
Color & Finish
Deep amber, caramel, and dark brown mottled faux tortoiseshell pattern with a high-gloss polished lacquer finish.
Construction Method
Handcrafted or artisan-finished assembly with a continuous wrapped or finished surface hiding the underlying joinery.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Concealed joinery typical of high-end decorative occasional tables with waterfall or wrapped edges.
Wood Grain & Species
Faux-finished tortoiseshell pattern mimicking exotic shell rather than a specific natural wood grain.
Surface Treatment
High-gloss lacquered surface with a hand-painted or decoupaged tortoiseshell motif featuring rich depth and chatoyancy.
Upholstery Details
N/A
Hardware & Fittings
None visible, emphasizing the seamless monolithic design.
Origin & Provenance
Likely American or Italian manufacture, popular in upscale interior design markets during the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good vintage condition with a well-maintained glossy finish and minimal surface wear consistent with light use.
Interesting Facts
Faux tortoiseshell techniques date back centuries, but experienced a massive resurgence in the 1970s and 1980s within Hollywood Regency and maximalist interior design circles to add texture and exotic flair without using actual endangered materials.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the late 20th-century fascination with Chinoiserie, exotic animal motifs, and high-gloss glamour popularized by interior designers like Dorothy Draper and continued by luxury brands.
Similar Pieces
Burl wood waterfall coffee tables, lacquer Parsons tables, and brass-trimmed tortoiseshell cabinets from high-end makers like Maitland-Smith.
Care & Maintenance
Dust frequently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, abrasives, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent lacquer yellowing or fading. Use coasters.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges from $600 to $1,800 depending on the exact maker, provenance, and pristine nature of the high-gloss lacquer finish.
Sustainability Notes
Represents sustainable vintage reuse, keeping decorative mid-to-late 20th-century furniture in circulation and avoiding the harvesting of real tortoiseshell.