Antique Oriental Cedar Tea Coffee Table With Islamic Calligraphy Decor

Beautiful hexagonal coffee table from the early 20th century, in cedar; from the indigenous school of Oran (boulevard d'Iéna), made of solid wood carved with cross-hatching and Islamic calligraphy in geometric and floral patterns.

The central panel bears a relief engraving in Arabic: "There is no God without God", testifying to a vocation. The cylindrical turned legs, the slightly beveled top and the complex exterior decoration illustrate a hybrid know-how, Dimensions Height: approx. 50 cm Diameter of the top: approx. 60 cm Condition: Good general condition with original patina.

Some traces of use and a crack on the top (superficial scratches), nothing structurally deteriorated. Oran, Algeria – early 20th centurydecorative spiritual Islamic tradition.

This hexagonal piece of furniture in carved wood, inlaid with arabesque and calligraphic motifs, comes from an artisan workshop in Oran from the beginning of the 20th century, iron stamp signed underneath “native school” located on Boulevard d’Iéna in Oran:These professional schools trained local artisans (cabinetmakers, sculptors, marquetry workers) in traditional skills combining Muslim influences and Western techniques.

In Oran, traditional cabinetmaking used cedar or mahogany. The existence of artisan workshops or “masters” (mâalem) specialized in wood carving is documented in the cities of the Maghreb