A convergent synthesis of the title benzils, which embody the 1,2‐diarylethane‐1,2‐dione system, is reported. Key steps involve intramolecular cyclization of the carbanion at the benzylic position of the arylbenzyl ether to the adjacent ester group followed by oxidation. The palladium(II)‐catalyzed oxidative cyclization was also studied to establish the benzofuran unit of calophione A.