Jonathan’s Secrets June 2015 – High Point, NC – In this collection of writing desks, occasional furniture manufacturer Jonathan Charles unlocks the mystery of antique cabinets whose hidden compartments contain secrets of centuries past. Upon first glance, these 18th and 19th century-inspired designs appear to bear all; but behind their unassuming facade lies a treasure trove of secret drawers and stowaway shelves that still embody the spirit of the original antiques.
A display of Jonathan Charles’ impressive craftsmanship prowess, each piece bears meticulous carvings and ornate inlays achieved only by their artisans who spend over a decade honing their skills to specialize in a particular technique. These artisans replicate every flourish, down to the hardware which is custom-cast in their in-house foundry, to preserve the spirit of the
original antiques.
Whether you’re storing secret love letters of decades ago or emergency funds, these bureaus will safeguard your most prized possessions in style.
HABERDASHERY CHEST (495329)
More than meets the eye, the Haberdashery Chest is a treasure trove for your wardrobe with a myriad of drawers that open to reveal 4 additional hidden compartments, perfect for shielding precious objects of desire away from potential burglars. The beveled wood doors open to reveal argyle patterned marquetry on each door’s interior panel and antique brass hardware, which are custom cast in the company’s in-house foundry. 36” W x 21” D x 72” H
ALNWICK BUREAU (530034)
Designed by William Yeoward for Jonathan Charles, the Alnwick Bureau is designed to fulfill multiple purposes, with the top half ideal for displaying fine china or other ceramic ware, the middle section folding open as a writing desk, and the bottom section for additional storage. The exaggerated cornice and the washed acacia wood exterior help frame the soft blue interior with its balustrade and its little drawers, including 2 secret compartments.
56.5” W x 22.5” D x 99” H
QUEEN ANNE GLAZED WALNUT BUREAU (494482)
Modeled after an original circa 1710, the Queen Anne Glazed Walnut Bureau features an alluring mix of eglomise glass panels and crotch walnut veneer exterior that reveals a gilded chinoiserie relief set against a black painted canvas. Beyond the 21 visible drawers and 18 shelves, the bureau also features 4 secret compartments, including pull out trays and cupboards, hidden behind select shelves. Ogee moulded glazed panels on the top are a regal foil for the lower half of the bureau comprised of a fall front shelf with chinoiserie inlaid drawers and block footed base with two storage drawers. 44” W x 22” D x 98.5” H
WILLIAM & MARY OYSTER SECRETAIRE CABINET ON STAND (492033)
A marvel of Jonathan Charles’ impeccable craftsmanship, the William & Mary Oyster Secretaire Cabinet on Stand contains more shelves and drawers than imaginable. Fine oyster veneered paneled doors open to reveal a fully fitted interior with églomisé lined shelves and multiple small drawers that pull out to reveal 2 hidden drawers. An open base with barley twist legs and serpentine stretchers add levity to the desk. 46.5” W x 20.75” D x 69” H
QUEEN ANNE POLLARD VENEER BUREAU CABINET (494477)
Modeled after an original circa 1710, the classic Queen Anne-style Bureau Cabinet stays true to the original design with fine pollarded oak veneers and a double domed top surmounted with carved and turned finials. Behind the antiqued mirrored doors lies a maze of 9 hidden drawers, cupboards, and discreet pigeonholes, all neatly tucked underneath a fully fitted interior with inset leather panels and architectural details. 45” W x 22” D x 91” H
About the Designer:
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Jonathan Charles Fine Furniture is the vision of Jonathan Sowter, an English furniture designer who excels at the art of fine antique reproduction. Though Jonathan draws inspirations from original antiques he discovers in his travels, his unique twists create contemporary translations of vintage treasures. With a keen eye for the smallest details, Jonathan employs traditional, hand-crafted techniques to create the most visually-stunning and intricate designs. As Jonathan always says, “It’s all in the detail…” |