Carved Wooden Tripod Side Table With Dragon Motif Appraisal

Carved Wooden Tripod Side Table with Dragon Motif

This is a round, carved wooden side table featuring a distinctive tripod base and elaborate ornamentation. The tabletop is approximately 20-24 inches in diameter and crafted from a medium-to-dark stained wood, likely mahogany or a similar hardwood, exhibiting visible wood grain in the central, uncarved quatrefoil section. The perimeter of the tabletop is extensively hand-carved with a continuous, undulating border depicting stylized dragons, their scaled bodies interwoven with a decorative geometric or basket weave pattern. The dragons possess distinct heads with prominent eyes and snouts, and their serpentine forms create a dynamic, ornate edge to the table surface. Four distinct 'waves' or large scallops define the outer edge of the tabletop. Inside this dragon border, there's a relief-carved band featuring cross-hatching or a similar textural pattern, creating a frame around an inner, smooth-finished quatrefoil shape that forms the primary flat surface of the table. The table stands on three legs, which appear to be carved and possibly collapsible or designed for easy assembly, though the joint construction is not fully visible. The legs are also made of the same dark wood and exhibit some carved details, although less intricate than the tabletop. The overall color is a rich, warm brown. Visible condition issues include some scuffs and wear on the edges of the tabletop carvings, and particularly on the feet of the tripod base, where the wood seems to be worn and lighter in color, possibly from repeated contact with the ground or moisture. There are no obvious cracks or major structural damages visible from this perspective. The craftsmanship points to a handmade piece, likely from an Asian region (possibly Chinese or Southeast Asian) given the prominent dragon iconography and intricate carving style. This style suggests an early to mid-20th century or possibly even late 19th-century origin, indicative of a period when such decorative furniture was popular for export or as exotic household accents. The carving depth and detail indicate a good level of artisan skill.