About the Piece
Pair of Vintage Moroccan Moorish Ivory Hand-Painted Star-Shaped Side Tables, circa 1950
An exquisite pair of vintage Moroccan Moorish hand-carved and hand-painted wooden side tables, dating to circa 1950. Distinguished by their elegant ivory backgrounds, intricate polychrome decoration, and sculptural eight-pointed star-shaped tops, these exceptional occasional tables beautifully reflect the rich artistic traditions of Moroccan Islamic and Hispano-Moresque decorative arts.
Each table features a striking eight-pointed star top with an elaborately hand-painted central medallion composed of interlacing geometric patterns, scrolling arabesques, and stylized floral motifs. The delicate ivory and cream palette is complemented by soft rose pink, turquoise blue, jade green, burgundy red, and touches of ochre and black, creating a sophisticated and harmonious composition.
The unusual star-shaped tops are framed by finely painted geometric borders and vibrant turquoise blue edges, providing a beautiful contrast against the softly aged ivory finish.
Equally impressive are the architectural octagonal pedestal bases, which feature intricately carved and painted panels inspired by traditional Moorish arches and Islamic architectural ornamentation. Each side is decorated with graceful pointed-arch motifs, delicate arabesques, and ornamental details outlined in soft pink, turquoise, and warm earth tones. The lower panels are embellished with charming turquoise floral medallions, emphasizing the craftsmanship and decorative richness of these distinctive pieces.
The combination of hand-carved wooden construction, intricate painted ornamentation, and architectural silhouettes gives these tables a sculptural presence that transcends their practical function.
Beautifully proportioned at 21 inches high and 22 inches wide, they are ideal as living room side tables, drinks tables, bedside stands, or decorative occasional tables. Their elegant ivory finish and subtle pastel coloration make them particularly versatile, pairing beautifully with antique furnishings, contemporary upholstery, natural linen, travertine, and warm Mediterranean interiors.
These charming Moroccan tables would be equally captivating in a sophisticated Marbella villa, a Spanish Colonial residence, an eclectic Parisian apartment, or a contemporary interior seeking a distinctive accent of North African craftsmanship.
Their decorative character evokes the celebrated Marrakech interiors associated with Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, whose passion for Moroccan craftsmanship helped introduce the beauty of traditional North African furniture and decorative arts to an international audience. The richly layered interiors of Villa Oasis, associated with American designer Bill Willis, remain an enduring reference for this sophisticated blend of Moroccan tradition and European eclecticism.
A wonderful example of mid-century Moroccan Moorish craftsmanship, this matching pair combines sculptural architectural design, delicate hand-painted ornamentation, and timeless Mediterranean Bohemian elegance.
Handcrafted in Morocco, circa 1950.
Dimensions of each table:
Height: 21 inches (53.34 cm)
Width: 22 inches (55.88 cm)
Depth: 22 inches (55.88 cm)
Materials: Hand-carved wood with hand-painted polychrome decoration.
Style: Moroccan Moorish, Islamic, Hispano-Moresque, Mediterranean, Bohemian.
Period: Mid-20th century.
Date of Manufacture: Circa 1950.
Place of Origin: Morocco, North Africa.
Sold As: Matching pair of two tables. Price is for the pair.
