Locks for Hidden Compartments

[Jeff L Headley]

Cockbeading is very time consuming. I would not want to add it for that price even.

 

[Jeff L Headley]

Drawer stops take an incredible amount of abuse. Do you think that these stops are original or contemporary reproductions of the original?
The Metropolitian Mueseum of Art in NY purchased a Newport desk and bookcase in the 20's and had it xrayed in the 80"s and found secert compartments behind the quarter columns.
Great hidden compartments in either Case.

 

[Jack Plane]

I would say the sliding drawerstops are almost certainly original; cutting the catch recesses into the drawer guides would not be easily done neatly after the fact. There's also a fair bit of wear on the compartment lid.

Quarter columns on a carcase would offer great opportunities for secret compartments if the piece included false interior carcase sides.

 

[Jeff L Headley]

I am sorry. I did not mean to ask if they where not original. I was wondering if they are in original condition. With 150+ years of wear and still working as drawer stops I am amazed. I am always interested in improving the pieces I build today as I think we all do so what works needs to be respected. Thank you and I have appreciated your and everyone's responses.

 

[Jeff L Headley]

As pictured the hidden compartment (box) would be accessed from the left side after the drawer was removed. The divider would be only about 6" in length. The hidden box would act as a guide and divider between the loper and the case side.