The secretary desk is entirely veneered and threaded on a wavy front

Luigi XV Ligure Half 1700 cabinet, fully veneered and fluted on a wavy front, with two large drawers and two rounded drawers side by side, designed with reduced dimensions for a calatoia. The extraordinary herringbone pattern of the top creates elegant opposing mirrors, framed with refined threadwork.

The interior of the folding doors is veneered and conceals drawers, open compartments for documents, and central doors. The protruding frames at the front of this ancient Genoese sideboard are made of headwood. The front apron is integrated with the lower drawer. 

The sides are made of solid walnut and supported by sabre legs. It is in good condition, showing signs of wear, minor imperfections, and damages consistent with the 18th century. The piece comes from a private residence in Milan and has been restored in our workshop. 

The beautiful antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Today, there is a growing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that possess a specific character and soul. This is a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its distinctive features.

Several key styles stand out among antique furniture. Eclectic furniture mainly refers to the 19th century, dominated by the Biedermeier style. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis Philippe style, and finally the Victorian English style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque influences.

Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century, originating from the reign of Napoleon. It features significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture reflects the Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique pieces in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Baroque, whose name derives from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl—was characterized by highly ornate furniture meant to radiate splendor and luxury. Selective use of luxurious materials emphasized the grandeur of these pieces.

Today, we can observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classical furniture, which often closely resembles the historical period. The Renaissance style also played a significant role, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries and leaving a profound mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, using brown stains, moldings, strong bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also introduced new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly defined chest furniture. Mythology and ancient themes were also popular, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion’s paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance-style furniture. Currently, many global brands reproduce such pieces, inspired by Italian and French craftsmen, as a tribute to the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, giving each style a unique character. This is especially crucial when searching for a luxurious antique that suits your interior.

The key to authentic antique-style furniture is originality. Ultimately, this matters most to the buyer, as the market is flooded with fakes. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and compliance with the description and photos. We also have experts—art appraisers, historians, and specialists from around the world—available to assist you.