Vintage Japanese Low Table with Mother-of-Pearl Inlay Lacquer, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0614-2

Vintage Japanese Low Table with Mother-of-Pearl Inlay Lacquer, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0614-2

A richly lacquered chabudai-style low table adorned with dense mother-of-pearl inlay -- waterfowl, blossoms, and vines rendered in luminous shell against a deep reddish-brown ground.

This is a traditional East Asian low table designed for floor-seated dining and entertaining. This example is finished in a deep reddish-brown lacquer and decorated with an extraordinary density of mother-of-pearl inlay across the entire tabletop. At the center, a cartouche-shaped oval medallion depicts a pair of waterfowl among reeds and lotus -- a classic symbol of fidelity and natural beauty -- surrounded by layered borders of stylized chrysanthemum blossoms, scrolling vines, and butterfly motifs rendered in iridescent shell. The raised rim edges the top on all sides, creating a contained, tray-like surface. The apron below is shaped with a graceful scalloped profile, and the table stands on turned legs joined by sled-style stretchers, all coated in the same lacquer finish. Small metal stud feet protect the base. The inlay style and motif vocabulary are closely related to the najeon chilgi lacquerware tradition, and this piece may have been produced in or imported through that tradition for the Japanese market during the Late Showa period -- making it a compelling piece of vintage Asian decorative furniture for collectors.

In today's home, this compact low table is a natural conversation piece for a Japandi-style living room, placed at the center of floor cushions or a low seating arrangement as a coffee table or tea display surface. Its ornate top makes it equally striking as a decorative accent in an entryway or bedroom, used to display ceramics, botanicals, or curated objects. The iridescent inlay catches light beautifully, adding warmth and a wabi-sabi aesthetic to minimalist or eclectic interiors alike. It also makes a truly unique housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Asian vintage furniture and decorative art.

• Origin: Japanese market piece; inlay style consistent with najeon lacquerware tradition
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Hardwood base with dark reddish-brown lacquer finish; mother-of-pearl shell inlay
• Use: Low floor-use dining or serving table; chabudai-style
• Modern Use: Floor-level coffee table for low seating arrangements; decorative display surface for ceramics or botanicals; entryway accent table
• Features: Dense mother-of-pearl inlay across the full tabletop surface; central oval medallion with waterfowl motif; layered floral and vine borders; raised rim on all sides; scalloped apron; turned legs with sled-style stretchers; small metal stud feet
• Dimensions: 24"W x 18"D x 10 1/2"H
• Condition: Vintage wear consistent with age -- light surface scratches and minor lacquer loss at corners; inlay largely intact; structurally sound

A luminous example of East Asian lacquer craft -- this vintage mother-of-pearl inlay low table brings the elegance of traditional floor culture and handcrafted Asian decorative furniture into any modern living space.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.