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

Antica Trentina Lastronata corner cabinet 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 sliding 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 number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that possess a distinct character and soul. This is a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the creation 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 are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture belongs to the 19th century, during which the beloved Biedermeier style flourished. Its early 20th-century variants include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and the English Victorian style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, characterized by 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. Next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to shine with splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Materials were chosen selectively to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can see how much influence the Baroque style has on modern classical furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. The Renaissance style also made a significant impact, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries and leaving a lasting mark on furniture craftsmanship. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, often using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and bas-reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly speaking, chest-type furniture. Mythology and ancient times inspired these designs, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion’s paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture, inspired by Italian and French artisans, as a tribute to and preservation of the finest 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 important when searching for an elegant antique that suits your interior.

The key aspect of elite antique furniture is originality. Ultimately, this is crucial for buyers, as many forgeries circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the authenticity of each item, matching the description and photos. We also have access to art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world.