Trentina Lastronata secretary desk - an antique from a private collection in Milan

Antica Trentina Lastronata cabinet door made of walnut wood, decorated with geometric threads of maple and cherry. 

The front of this XVIII-century folding commode features three large drawers topped with a calatoia and two rows of slanted drawers. It rests on support legs. 

It comes from a private collection in Milan, is in good conservation condition, with pull-out drawers and minimal signs of wear, tears, or missing panels, fully functional and dated to the mid-18th century.

Exquisite antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for interior decoration. Currently, there is a growing appreciation for high-quality vintage items that possess a distinct 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 own distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few key ones stand out. Eclectic furniture from the 19th century is associated with the popular Biedermeier style. Its early variations include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe, and Victorian English styles. Toward the end of the century, these styles blend into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque influences.

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

Neoclassical furniture, such as Louis XVI style, also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique pieces in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl—was characterized by highly ornate, luxurious furniture designed to impress with splendor and play a significant role in opulence. Materials were chosen selectively to emphasize the grandeur of these pieces.

Today, we can see how much the Baroque style influenced modern classical furniture, which often mirrors the grandeur of the past. The Renaissance style, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries, also left a significant mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, using dark stains, moldings, strong bases, and relief decorations. 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 influenced the design, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws and eagle heads are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French artisans, paying homage to and preserving the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture production varied by country, giving each style a unique character. This is especially important when selecting elegant antiques suited to your interior.

The key aspect of elite antique furniture is originality. This is ultimately crucial for buyers, as the market is flooded with fakes. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the authenticity of each item, matching the description and photos. We also offer access to art experts, historians, and specialists from around the world.