Object of the week- the Channon cabinet

Described as one of the truly great masterpieces of English furniture, Temple Newsam’s Channon cabinet hides an incredible network of secret compartments.

Crafted by John Channon in 1750, the huge mahogany cabinet hides a number of intricate, interlocking drawers which were originally designed to conceal aristocrats’ love notes and treasures.

Channon, who was based on St Martin’s Lane in London, is known for its detailed designs and stunning brass inlay.

Today the elaborate cabinet stands in the house’s Blue Damask Room alongside other beautiful examples of decorative furniture.

One romantic visitor recently employed the cabinet for a unique Valentine’s Day proposal, concealing and engagement ring in one of the drawers only for it to be revealed during a special tour.

The cabinet will also be the focus of one of a series of new workshops next month looking at furniture that appears to be one thing but hides other secrets uses.

Transformers: Furniture in disguise takes place every third Wednesday of the month, with the Channon cabinet being explored in April.

Councillor Brian Selby, Leeds City Council’s lead member for museums and galleries, said: “The Channon cabinet is an incredible piece of craftsmanship and it’s so impressive to see its intricate series of draws and compartments unfold.

“Temple Newsam is home to so many unique pieces of decorative furniture and each room of the house hides its own stunning surprise.”

Temple Newsam House is currently available for wedding bookings.

If you would like to know more about planning your day at Temple Newsam then please contact the wedding team on 0113 3367460, email Temple.Newsam.House@Leeds.gov.uk or visit: leeds.gov.uk/templenewsamweddings

For more details about Transformers: Furniture in disguise, visit: http://whatson.leeds.gov.uk/Pages/eventdetails.aspx?eventId=whatson-1808

ENDS