Design Trends: Keeping Secrets

Elaborate bureaus mimic the craftsmanship of centuries past.

Hidden drawers and compartments in the original 18th and 19th century pieces were meant to store valuables, even secret love letters. Occasional furniture manufacturer Jonathan Charles recaptures the craftsmanship of beloved antiques with replicas featuring intricate carving, ornate inlays, and plenty of drawers and shelves hidden behind unassuming facades. The glazed-walnut Queen Anne bureau ($14,880, above) is modeled after a 1710 piece and features eglomise glass panels outside and unexpected gilded Chinoiserie relief against black painted canvas inside. In addition to 21 drawers and 18 shelves, it also has four secret compartments. Behind the Haberdashery chest’s ($8,385, below) beveled wood doors are argyle-patterned marquetry, custom-cast antique brass hardware plus four hidden compartments.

Available at Agostino’s Furniture & Design, Naples.