Chinese Black Lacquer Oval Coffee Table with Mother-of-Pearl Inlay and Stools

This is a vintage Chinese-style oval coffee table set, likely dating from the mid-to-late 20th century. The table features an ornate black lacquer finish with extensive mother-of-pearl (Nacre) soapstone inlay work depicting traditional oriental landscapes and figures. The tabletop is protected by a custom-fitted piece of glass, resting above a recessed central scene. The apron of the table is heavily carved and decorated with further monochromatic shell inlay. A distinguishing feature of this piece is the set of four matching wedge-shaped nesting stools that tuck neatly under the table's frame, maximizing space-saving functionality. The furniture is constructed with cabriole-style legs ending in claw-foot or stylistic hoof terminations. While the lighting is dim, the lacquer appears to maintain a high-gloss sheen, though common condition issues for this type of furniture include fine hairline cracks in the lacquer (crazing), chipping at the edges of the stools, or loosening of the inlaid shell pieces. The craftsmanship reflects typical export-quality Chinese furniture often produced in Hong Kong or mainland China between 1960 and 1980.