Marble Top Table with Mother-of-Pearl Inlay

This gorgeous center table from the early 20th century applies classical Chinese forms to Western designs, and may have been intended for the export market. The table features a round top and four elegantly curved legs linked by interlocking stretchers and ending in claw-form feet. The top is inset with a round slab of grey and white marble, chosen for its beautifully swirling appearance reminiscent of shifting desert sands or plumes of incense smoke. The surrounding wood frame is comprised of six joined segments and decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay of floral scrollwork. Inlaid coins and bats pattern the tabletop edge, symbols of prosperity and happiness.