{"title":"Calamander \u0026amp; Coromandel Furniture Collections","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"205\" data-end=\"634\"\u003eCalamander, also known as Coromandel wood, is a rare and exotic hardwood native to Sri Lanka and parts of India. With its rich brown colouring dramatically streaked with black, calamander was one of the most luxurious timbers used in Anglo-Indian and English furniture during the late 18th and 19th centuries. Valued for its weight, density, and striking grain, it was reserved for the finest veneers and small-scale furniture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"636\" data-end=\"659\"\u003eOrigins and Trade\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"660\" data-end=\"1085\"\u003eThe name “Coromandel” derives from the Coromandel Coast of south-east India, where European traders first encountered this timber in the 17th century. By the late 18th century, calamander was being imported in small quantities to England, prized for its exotic appearance and scarcity. Because it was difficult to source in large planks, it was almost always used as a veneer, laid over carcasses of oak, teak, or mahogany.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1087\" data-end=\"1113\"\u003eDecorative Qualities\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1114\" data-end=\"1501\"\u003eCalamander is closely related to ebony (\u003cem data-start=\"1154\" data-end=\"1165\"\u003eDiospyros\u003c\/em\u003e species) and shares its extreme hardness and density. Its appearance, however, is more variegated, with a dramatic striped figure ranging from golden brown to near black. Cabinetmakers exploited these contrasting tones by book-matching veneers across table tops, cabinet doors, and writing surfaces, creating bold decorative effects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1503\" data-end=\"1543\"\u003eAnglo-Indian and English Furniture\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1544\" data-end=\"1850\"\u003eCalamander featured prominently in \u003cstrong data-start=\"1579\" data-end=\"1605\"\u003eAnglo-Indian furniture\u003c\/strong\u003e of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, produced for both colonial households and export to Britain. Campaign chests, writing boxes, and work tables were frequently veneered in calamander, combining English forms with Indian craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1852\" data-end=\"2236\"\u003eIn England, calamander was also used by leading cabinetmakers of the Regency and Victorian eras. \u003cstrong data-start=\"1949\" data-end=\"1984\"\u003eGillows of Lancaster and London\u003c\/strong\u003e employed calamander veneers on refined tables, cabinets, and chairs, while London firms such as \u003cstrong data-start=\"2081\" data-end=\"2099\"\u003eHolland \u0026amp; Sons\u003c\/strong\u003e produced elegant calamander writing desks and davenport tables. Its rarity meant it was always associated with luxury and exclusivity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2238\" data-end=\"2250\"\u003eLegacy\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2251\" data-end=\"2611\"\u003eBy the mid-19th century, overharvesting had rendered calamander scarce, and it was gradually replaced by other exotic timbers such as coromandel ebony and rosewood. Today, antique calamander furniture is highly prized for its rarity, dramatic appearance, and its connection to both Anglo-Indian craftsmanship and the English Regency taste for exotic veneers.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"ceylonese-specimen-wood-occasional-table","title":"Ceylonese Specimen Wood Occasional Table","description":"\u003cp\u003eCeylonese Specimen Wood Occasional Table\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis remarkable centre table exemplifies the artistry and elegance of 19th-century Ceylonese craftsmanship, featuring intricate inlay and refined detailing typical of the period. The piece evokes a sense of exotic sophistication, blending indigenous woods with time-honoured woodworking traditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin: India (Ceylon)\nDate: Circa 1850\nMaterial: Calamander Wood, Ebony\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: Height: 71 cm (28 ins)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 68 cm (26.5 ins)\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 68 cm (26.5 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: Excellent patina, minor age-related surface wear\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ceylonese Specimen Wood Occasional Table stands as a testament to the rich heritage of colonial-era furniture, resonating with the same attention to craftsmanship found in celebrated South Asian collections. Closely related to pieces displayed at the Victoria \u0026amp; Albert Museum, its use of rare specimen woods and meticulous workmanship typifies the sought-after accent tables produced for distinguished homes across Britain and the Empire in the mid-19th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotable Features:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe octagonal top showcases a masterful inlay of specimen indigenous woods, each segment highlighting the natural beauty and variation of Ceylon's timber.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBordered by intricately carved calamander wood, the tabletop’s detailing draws the eye, while echoing the refined lines typical of Regency and Colonial design.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe sturdy, turned solid ebony base is both functional and decorative, its graceful profile raised on four bun feet that lend stability and period elegance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn exceptional example of Ceylonese accent tables, this centre table is a rarity, not only for its combination of calamander and ebony but also for its desirable form and scale—highly prized among collectors and interior specialists alike.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for use as a centre table in a drawing room, library, or for a curated collection, this specimen wood occasional table will elevate any space with its unique provenance and decorative appeal. Its historical significance, coupled with practical sturdiness, ensures it remains as relevant for the connoisseur today as it was for its original owner over 170 years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Sold Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51149996851537,"sku":"14587","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/0W2A9940-1-1_17fb6936-2706-4115-90dc-3200e122c269.webp?v=1747923276"},{"product_id":"late-19th-century-calamander-wood-glazed-cabinet","title":"Late 19th Century Calamander Wood Vitrine Cabinet","description":"\u003cp\u003eLate 19th Century Calamander Wood Vitrine Cabinet\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA striking example of Victorian period furniture, this Late 19th Century Calamander Wood Vitrine Cabinet showcases refined English craftsmanship and opulent materiality. With its tall form and elegant glazed display, the piece epitomises the sophisticated display furniture so sought after in grand 19th-century interiors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin: England\u003cbr\u003eDate: Circa 1860\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Calamander wood with ormolu and porcelain accents  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: Height: 106 cm (41.7 ins); Width: 90 cm (35.5 ins); Depth: 40 cm (15.7 ins)  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: Excellent patina; condition befitting age with minor wear to gilding\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the Victorian era, English cabinet makers excelled at creating distinctive vitrine cabinets for displaying prized porcelain and curios. This calamander wood vitrine draws comparisons to celebrated examples by renowned firms and holds its own alongside pieces in major collections. The rich, deep hues of the calamander are complemented by tasteful ormolu mounts and fine porcelain inserts, creating a harmonious balance between utility and decorative artistry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotable Features:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuperb craftsmanship is evident in the precise joinery and delicate detailing, including the use of exceptional calamander wood, known for its rarity and dramatic graining.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe structure is enhanced by distinctive ormolu mounts and tasteful porcelain embellishments, reflecting the Victorian fascination with exotic materials and continental motifs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA finely-proportioned design featuring tall glazed panels allows for optimal display of treasured objects, with the form reflecting both Regency symmetry and the delicacy found in late Rococo taste.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs a rare example among tall display cabinets of this period, the cabinet offers significant collecting value due to its material, provenance, and exceptional preservation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdeal for use in both traditional and contemporary settings, this late 19th century display cabinet is perfectly suited for showcasing a personal collection, enhancing a drawing room, or standing as a focal point in a curated furniture ensemble.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCombining period elegance with practical functionality, this calamander wood cabinet is a distinguished addition to any fine furniture collection, embodying both the timeless appeal and inherent value that mark the best of Victorian cabinet furniture.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nwtiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51192748015953,"sku":"7199","price":6500.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/background-editor_output_df3cdd32-bd18-4e6d-b0be-15048b60164d.png?v=1748599927"},{"product_id":"pair-of-19th-century-sinhalese-calamander-wood-armchairs","title":"PAIR OF 19TH CENTURY SINHALESE CALAMANDER WOOD ARMCHAIRS","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very fine pair of solid calamander wood south Indian \/ Ceylonese armchairs, both crafted from highly figured rich Calamander Wood. With strong carved ornament, pierced aprons and claw feet.\u003cbr\u003eCeylon, India, Circa 1850\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight: 110 cms (43.3 ins)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 61 cms (24 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nwtiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51213000769873,"sku":"16401","price":10000.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/background-editor_output_61a53fb4-dc81-4890-8471-b67cf8bf4db7.png?v=1748892296"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/collections\/1000046742.jpg?v=1749938385","url":"https:\/\/nwtiques.com\/collections\/calamander.oembed","provider":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}