French Art Deco Dining Table in Macassar

Art Deco Macassar Ebony and Black Lacquer Dining Table with Gondola Base, circa 1930

This exceptional Art Deco Macassar ebony dining table, dating from around 1930, is distinguished by its striking sculptural base in a characteristic gondola or tulip form. The table is accompanied by two separate extension leaves. As a result, it can be transformed into a generously proportioned dining table for larger gatherings.

The design is defined by the sophisticated interplay of two contrasting surfaces. These are the expressive grain of Macassar ebony, with its warm brown and almost black tones, and the deep black, high-gloss lacquered surfaces. This deliberate combination of precious wood veneer and rigorous black lacquer is one of the defining characteristics of sophisticated Art Deco design.

The generous tabletop is framed by a substantial apron, fully veneered in Macassar ebony. Lively, linear grain runs horizontally around the edge of the top, emphasizing the table’s elongated architectural form. The softly rounded corners temper the geometric character and give the table an exceptionally elegant silhouette.

A particularly remarkable feature is the pair of extension leaves finished in deep black high-gloss lacquer. They can be inserted at either end of the table, considerably increasing its length. When extended, they create a striking material contrast. The black lacquered surfaces deliberately stand apart from the warm and expressive grain of the Macassar ebony. At the same time, they echo the black lacquer of the base. Therefore, the extensions appear not merely functional, but as an integral part of the overall design concept.

Sculptural Gondola or Tulip Base

The sculptural base in gondola or tulip form is particularly impressive. Several parallel, widely sweeping arches rise from the central plinth to support the tabletop. Their flowing, almost monumental movement creates a fascinating contrast with the strong horizontal line of the table.

The contrast of materials is continued throughout the base. Large sections are finished in black lacquer, while Macassar ebony is used selectively as a warm decorative accent. This creates exceptional visual depth. Depending on the light, the high-gloss black arches appear almost mirror-like. In addition, their flowing forms give the substantial construction a remarkable sense of lightness and sculptural quality.

The central plinth combines Macassar ebony and black lacquer into a strictly geometric foundation. The Macassar sections continue the material language of the table apron, while the black lacquered elements emphasize the architectural structure. Discreet metallic details at the central connection points provide subtle highlights.

The repeated use of black lacquer — on the two extension leaves, within the central plinth and across the sweeping gondola-shaped base — gives the entire piece a strong visual coherence. Black lacquer is not merely a complementary finish here, but an essential element of the design. Its deep, reflective surface forms an elegant counterpoint to the expressive grain of the Macassar ebony. It also reinforces the table’s crisp, graphic character.

The construction of the base is also highly functional. Its central gondola form leaves the outer areas beneath the tabletop largely unobstructed. This provides excellent legroom and comfortable seating despite the table’s imposing appearance. With the two extension leaves in place, the table can be transformed into a magnificent dining table suitable for larger occasions.

The character of this piece is created not through excessive ornamentation, but through proportion, material contrast and exceptionally sculptural lines. Macassar ebony, high-gloss black lacquer and the sweeping architecture of the base combine to create a highly distinguished example of Art Deco furniture.

An impressive dining table with exceptional presence, equally suited to a classic Art Deco interior or as a sculptural statement piece within a sophisticated contemporary setting.

Art Deco at RSA Wiesbaden

You can find more Art Deco cabinets, Art Deco chests of drawers and Art Deco lamps in my shop in Wiesbaden. Regine Schmitz-Avila – your specialist for French Art Deco furniture and art objects from around 1930.