Pair of Chinese Hardwood Nesting Tables – Mother-of-Pearl Inlay – Late Qing / Early 20th Century Decorative pair of graduated Chinese hardwood nesting tables/stands, dating approximately from the late Qing to early Republic period, circa 1890–1920. Both tables feature finely decorated rectangular tops with extensive mother-of-pearl/nacre inlay. The central panels depict traditional Chinese mountainous landscapes with architecture, trees and birds, surrounded by repeating geometric shell-inlaid borders and delicate floral decoration. Below the tops are attractive openwork carved aprons, incorporating traditional Chinese circular motifs and scrolling forms. The tables stand on slender square legs connected by stretchers. The mother-of-pearl displays attractive natural iridescence and contrasts beautifully with the warm-toned hardwood. Dimensions: Larger: 51 × 32.5 × 24.5 cm Smaller: 47 × 27 × 20 cm Condition: Antique condition with visible signs of age and use. There are losses to the mother-of-pearl inlay, surface wear, and separation/warping to sections of the top frames, particularly at the corners. Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.