Which term describes the Egyptian wood style commonly using ebony and ivory inlay?

• A. Inlay
• B. Marquetry
• C. Parquetry
• D. Veneer

Answer: (C)

Inlay is the technique of embedding pieces of contrasting materials into a base surface to create a design. When Egyptian furniture is described as using ebony and ivory inlay, that refers to inserting these materials into carved recesses so the surface shows a decorative pattern or image flush with the surrounding wood.

This differs from marquetry, which uses thin sheets (veneers) of various woods cut and fitted together to form a pattern or scene on the surface. Parquetry, meanwhile, arranges small pieces of wood into geometric patterns, typically used for floors. Veneer refers to that thin decorative layer applied to a substrate, not to the inlay process itself.