Rule of thumb I

Be contrary. Adopt that which is unfashionable and make it your own.

 William IV figured rosewood sofa table 

The rectangular top  above a shaped frieze drawer on carved pillar supports with paw feet.

Late 18th century Portuguese rosewood side table

Serpentine top above a frieze drawer and a scrolling-foliate carved apron, 

on cabriole legs with ball and claw feet

Power dwells apart in its tranquillity,
Remote, serene, and inaccessible...

Mont Blanc (L 96-97), Percy Bysshe Shelley

Now playing: Barbara and Georges Moustaki - La Dame Brune