Marquetry decoration and inlays game table, Syria, 19th century

A modular Syrian games table veneered in precious woods, adorned with marquetry and inlays of mother-of-pearl and ivory on each side. When open, this Syrian games table features a backgammon or trictrac board and a chessboard. The closed playing surface is covered in ochre leather, which can serve as a writing surface. The backgammon board is inlaid within the table itself, in a central recessed section. Along the rim, it has four holes cut into its thickness, used to hold playing pieces or candlesticks. This games table is mounted on a red velvet-covered top, and the whole rests on a modern gilt metal base. A rotating mechanism allows the table to be easily reconfigured by folding it onto its base, making it rectangular. When closed, this games table retains its splendid marquetry decoration. Circa 1890

What is backgammon?

Backgammon is a board game that was very fashionable in France during the 17th and 18th centuries. It was played particularly at court and among the aristocracy. This board game belongs to the category of games of skill and strategy, such as backgammon, which was also known in France as jacquet. The latter was much simpler and only appeared around 1800. Today, this type of game table, with its particularly fine marquetry, is highly sought after by collectors. 

Condition report: In good overall condition. Some missing inlays have been restored.