PIP: Synthesis of furanoxanthones carrying phenyl substituents in the 2' and 3'-positions has been undertaken on the basis of the appreciable antifertility activity associated with 2',3'-diphenylbenzofurans. 1,3-dihydroxy-, 1,3-dihydroxy-6-methyl- and 1,3-dihydroxy-5-methyl-xanthones were condensed separately with benzoin in the presence of polyphosphoric acid at 110 degrees to give the desired 2',3'-diphenylfurano(4',5':3,4)xanthones.