Here is the main damage, although it doesn't show up well in the photo. Where you see the white speck, the veneer is gone around that area, leaving a dark, dull place.

Can someone identify the wood on the table and the border or is that too difficult in this photo? Thanks.

I would not paint it -- it's a beautiful table.

I can't see the extent of the veneer damage from the photo. I would do a burn-in repair on this and it would mostly disappear. That's not an easy method to get equipped and skilled for, though. You might be able to get it filled with a wax filler. Since it's a burl, add a couple of colors and it should blend in fairly well. Level with an credit card or lotto-scratch-off. Then buff with a piece of paper grocery bag. If the veneer is loose, you can drip in a drop or two of CA (super-)glue.first.

Here is a link that might be useful: video on how to do it

The table is very nice I would hire a qualified tech to repair and refinish this table. I don't think I would attempt it myself.

Thanks for the advice. I'm glad I didn't paint it!