Chinese Nesting Tables (Chinoserie-style Nest of Tables)
Table (Nesting Tables, Accent Tables) · Chinoiserie / Mid-20th Century Asian Export (circa 1950s-1970s) · Unmarked, likely produced in Hong Kong or mainland China for the Western export market.
Type
Table (Nesting Tables, Accent Tables)
Style Period
Chinoiserie / Mid-20th Century Asian Export (circa 1950s-1970s)
Material
Likely mahogany or fruitwood base with black lacquer finish, glass inserts, and soapstone or mother-of-pearl relief figures.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1975 based on the style of relief figures and lacquer application.
Dimensions
Large table: 24"h x 20"w x 14"d; medium table: 20"h x 15"w x 12"d; small table: 16"h x 10"w x 10"d.
Origin
China or Hong Kong; standard export pieces brought to the US/UK during the mid-20th century Chinoiserie revival.
Designer/Maker
Unmarked, likely produced in Hong Kong or mainland China for the Western export market.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 for the full set depending on the level of detail and surface condition.
Description
A set of three graduated nesting tables featuring a striking black lacquer finish. Each table showcases a unique narrative scene composed of hand-carved stone figures in traditional Chinese dress, set against a hand-painted landscape. The protective glass tops ensure the delicate relief work remains preserved while allowing the tables to serve as functional surfaces.
Key Features
Telescoping design, raised soapstone/mother-of-pearl figural inlays, gold gilt borders, and protective inset glass.
Color & Finish
Solid ebony/black lacquer finish with hand-painted gold filigree and polychrome hardstone inlays.
Construction Method
Factory-produced export furniture with hand-applied decorative elements; tables slide into under-mounted track grooves.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Standard commercial mid-century joinery, likely doweled; relief figures show basic artisan carving skills.
Wood Grain & Species
Closed-grain hardwood (possibly Asian Cherry or Mahogany) completely obscured by high-gloss black lacquer.
Surface Treatment
High-gloss black lacquer with recessed panels protected by inset glass tops; features 'shibayama' style raised relief figures.
Upholstery Details
None; all surfaces are hard-finished wood and glass.
Hardware & Fittings
No metal hardware visible; relies on wooden runners for sliding mechanism.
Origin & Provenance
China or Hong Kong; standard export pieces brought to the US/UK during the mid-20th century Chinoiserie revival.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; visible surface scratches on the lacquer and glass. Some potential chips in the delicate soapstone figures. Structural integrity appears sound.
Interesting Facts
Nesting tables were first popularized by Thomas Sheraton in the 18th century, but the Chinese lacquer versions became a staple of 'Hollywood Regency' and mid-century globalist decor.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 20th-century Western fascination with 'Exoticism' and the long tradition of Chinese export furniture adapted for Western domestic needs.
Similar Pieces
Japanese Shibayama tables (usually more intricate/antique) and mid-century European black-painted nesting tables (usually without the stone inlays).
Care & Maintenance
Avoid silicone-based polishes; clean glass separately; use a damp microfiber cloth for lacquer; keep out of direct sunlight to prevent lacquer cracking.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 for the full set depending on the level of detail and surface condition.
Sustainability Notes
Representing a pre-disposable era of furniture; these are durable, repairable, and typically made from solid hardwoods rather than modern MDF.