Side table - Traditional Triangular Floor Table / Tea Table - Cedar - Nuristan tea table






Has over 25 years' experience in Asian art and owned an art gallery.
€41 |
|---|
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This antique triangular cedar tea table, titled Nuristan Tea Table, comes from Afghanistan and dates to 1900–1910.
Description from the seller
Beautiful and extremely rare antique wooden tea table (low coffee table or floor table) originating from the mountainous Nuristan region in eastern Afghanistan (c. 1900).
This unique object is a striking example of the high-quality, traditional woodcarving for which the craftsmen from this region are historically renowned. The table is entirely hand-crafted from heavy-quality native hardwood and has developed a beautiful, deep, and warm patina over the decades.
Features and craftsmanship:
• Unique design: The tabletop features a distinctive triangular shape. This model was traditionally used as a ceremonial floor table or tea table around which people sat on the ground.
• Geometric carving: The edges and inner surface of the tabletop are decorated all around with deeply carved, traditional zigzag patterns and stepped geometric motifs.
• Robust details: The three corners are fitted with the iconic large wooden knobs. The table stands stable on three sturdy, traditionally turned wooden legs.
• Authentic construction: The underside reveals the original, robust mortise-and-tenon joints, typical of early tribal furniture without the use of modern screws or nails.
Condition and origin:
• Origin: Nuristan, Afghanistan (formerly Kafiristan).
• Condition: The table is in a beautiful, weathered antique condition with a wonderful character. Natural signs of age are present all around, such as minor drying cracks in the wood, wear on the corners, and slight indentations along the edges. These imperfections bear witness to intensive use and contribute to the authenticity and historical value of this collector's item. No structural defects; the table is completely solid and stands stable on its legs.
Dimensions & Weight:
• Sides of the top: 65 cm per side
• Depth (from corner point to the straight side): 55 cm
• Total height (top of the table): 19 cm (height underneath the table is 17 cm)
• Weight: 2960 grams
Shipping method:
The object will be packed with the utmost care, sturdiness, and professionalism to prevent any damage during transit. Shipping will be handled by a reliable and recognized postal and parcel service, fully equipped with a signature required upon delivery and a Track & Trace code so you can follow the shipment accurately.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR THE BUYER (HOLIDAY):
Due to a holiday, I will be away from November 19 until December 6, 2026. If payment for this lot is processed by Catawiki by November 17 at the latest, I will ensure that the table is shipped before my departure. In the event of a later payment, shipment will take place immediately upon my return from December 7, 2026 onwards. Thank you for your understanding!
P.S. The final three lifestyle photos have been generated with the assistance of AI to illustrate the atmospheric setting.
Seller's Story
Beautiful and extremely rare antique wooden tea table (low coffee table or floor table) originating from the mountainous Nuristan region in eastern Afghanistan (c. 1900).
This unique object is a striking example of the high-quality, traditional woodcarving for which the craftsmen from this region are historically renowned. The table is entirely hand-crafted from heavy-quality native hardwood and has developed a beautiful, deep, and warm patina over the decades.
Features and craftsmanship:
• Unique design: The tabletop features a distinctive triangular shape. This model was traditionally used as a ceremonial floor table or tea table around which people sat on the ground.
• Geometric carving: The edges and inner surface of the tabletop are decorated all around with deeply carved, traditional zigzag patterns and stepped geometric motifs.
• Robust details: The three corners are fitted with the iconic large wooden knobs. The table stands stable on three sturdy, traditionally turned wooden legs.
• Authentic construction: The underside reveals the original, robust mortise-and-tenon joints, typical of early tribal furniture without the use of modern screws or nails.
Condition and origin:
• Origin: Nuristan, Afghanistan (formerly Kafiristan).
• Condition: The table is in a beautiful, weathered antique condition with a wonderful character. Natural signs of age are present all around, such as minor drying cracks in the wood, wear on the corners, and slight indentations along the edges. These imperfections bear witness to intensive use and contribute to the authenticity and historical value of this collector's item. No structural defects; the table is completely solid and stands stable on its legs.
Dimensions & Weight:
• Sides of the top: 65 cm per side
• Depth (from corner point to the straight side): 55 cm
• Total height (top of the table): 19 cm (height underneath the table is 17 cm)
• Weight: 2960 grams
Shipping method:
The object will be packed with the utmost care, sturdiness, and professionalism to prevent any damage during transit. Shipping will be handled by a reliable and recognized postal and parcel service, fully equipped with a signature required upon delivery and a Track & Trace code so you can follow the shipment accurately.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR THE BUYER (HOLIDAY):
Due to a holiday, I will be away from November 19 until December 6, 2026. If payment for this lot is processed by Catawiki by November 17 at the latest, I will ensure that the table is shipped before my departure. In the event of a later payment, shipment will take place immediately upon my return from December 7, 2026 onwards. Thank you for your understanding!
P.S. The final three lifestyle photos have been generated with the assistance of AI to illustrate the atmospheric setting.
