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Empire Antiquities

EMPIRE STYLE

From 1804–15, Napoléon I reigned as the emperor of France, bringing the country into a new era of opulence after the fall of the monarchy and the tumultuous years of the French Revolution. He declared, “We must have very solid things, made to last 100 years.” Empire-style furniture followed suit, with imposing pieces constructed from mahogany and adorned with gilded ornaments. Expanding on the neoclassicism popularized in the previous century — such as in ​​Louis XVI style — Empire style borrowed from the great civilizations of antiquity, from Egypt to Greece and Rome, to connect this nascent empire to the power of the past.

Napoléon I believed the production of fine furniture would reflect the stature of the republic, with his official architects Charles Percier and Pierre-François-Léonard Fontaine leading the way with their work on his residences.

Luxurious materials, symmetrical shapes and bold colors characterize antique Empire-style bedroom furniture, armchairs, cabinets and other structures, with frequent motifs including mythological creatures, geometric designs, acanthus leaves, eagles, bees (the imperial emblem) and swans, a favorite of Empress Joséphine.

Flat surfaces, like marble tabletops, were accented with decadent details, such as the bronze furniture mounts made by sculptor Pierre-Philippe Thomire for the French palaces. Martin-Guillaume Biennais, who worked as the imperial goldsmith, crafted intricate luxury objects that mixed wood, fine metal, mother-of-pearl and ivory. Ormolu — or elaborate bronze gilding — was essential to French design in the 18th and 19th centuries as a cornerstone of the neoclassical and Empire styles.

The style became popular abroad, influencing the American Empire style. Stately pieces carved with sprigs of olives by cabinetmaker Pierre-Antoine Bellange were acquired by American President James Monroe for the White House in 1817.

Find a collection of antique Empire tables, lighting, seating and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Style: Empire
Wilhelm II 1901 Zwei Mark Coin – Historical German Collectible - 2Y104
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This remarkable piece of numismatic history is a Wilhelm II Zwei Mark coin from the German Empire, minted in 1901. In excellent condition, this coin is an exquisite addition to any c...
Category

Early 1900s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Kodak Instamatic 133 Camera - 2Y218
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Capture a piece of photographic history with this vintage Kodak Instamatic 133 camera, a classic from the iconic brand that revolutionized amateur photography. This compact and light...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage West Kéramik Grand Vase with Knight Decoration – W. Germany - 2Y195
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of vintage elegance to your collection with this grand vase from West Kéramik, featuring a charming knight decoration. Made in West Germany, this piece showcases a classi...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Vintage Dinky Toys Autocar Chausson Méccano – 15 cm Long - 2Y02
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of history with this vintage Dinky Toys model, featuring the classic Autocar Chausson by Méccano. Perfect for collectors and vintage toy enthusiasts, this model car showcases the timeless design and craftsmanship that Dinky Toys is renowned for. Details: Type: Vintage Model Car...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Dinky Toys Peugeot 403 - Vintage Toy Car - 2Y40
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of classic automotive history to your collection with this vintage Dinky Toys Peugeot 403. This small but charming toy car is a classic example ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage 1997 Hotwheels Mattel Ferrari F512m Toy - 2Y192
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A collectible piece for car enthusiasts, this vintage Hotwheels model of the Ferrari F512m, produced by Mattel in 1997, is a must-have for fans of iconic sports cars and die-cast mod...
Category

1990s French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Film with Box "ECPA" – "Combat de Rue" (Program No. 1126) - 2Y204
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare piece of militaria features a vintage film titled "Combat de Rue" from the "Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des Armées" (ECPA). Complete with its original...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Antique Missal No. 21 "L Imitation de Jésus Christ" – A Spiritual Guide - 2Y180
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This antique missal, titled L'Imitation de Jésus Christ, is a precious spiritual work published by the esteemed C. Droguet & R. Ardant. A beautifully co...
Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Antique Hand-Carved African Wooden Tray with Rhinoceros and Savanna Decor- 2Y148
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite antique tray is crafted from precious wood and features a hand-carved design depicting a rhinoceros in a savanna landscape. A fine example of African art, this piece s...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Antique Book by J. Girardin - "Le Locataire des Demoiselles Rocher", 2Y120
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a classic piece of literature with this antique book by J. Girardin, titled "Le Locataire des Demoiselles Rocher." Published by Hachette, this novel offers a glimpse into historical storytelling and is a notable addition to any vintage book collection...
Category

1880s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Divination Orb, France 19th Century
Located in PARIS, FR
Superb divination orb, 19th century France. Crystal ball, glass decorations and bronze frame. Good condition, minor damage to crystal and glass parts. Dimensions in cm ( H x D ) : ...
Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Crystal, Bronze

Jules Verne Book - First Part, 7th Edition, Ed. Hetzel - 2Y80
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A classic Jules Verne book titled "Un Capitaine de Quinze Ans" (A Captain at Fifteen), first part, 7th edition published by Ed. Hetzel. This vintage b...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Antique 20th Century Egyptian-Themed Trinket Dish - 2Y135
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover a touch of ancient Egypt with this intriguing 20th-century piece, which could serve as an ashtray or trinket dish. Crafted, from brass, this item features a theme inspired by Egyptian art and design. The piece is sold as-is, showing signs of age with surface wear, partial scratches, and slight oxidation. The top section is somewhat damaged, and a serpent design has partially faded. Despite its imperfections, this item adds a unique historical charm to any collection. Key Features: Type: Trinket Dish Theme: Ancient Egypt Material: Brass Condition: worn with surface scratches, slight oxidation, top damage, and faded serpent design (see photos) Country of Manufacture: Egypt Dimensions: Diameter: 7 cm (2.8 inches) Height: 3 cm (1.2 inches) Weight: 93 grams (0.2 lbs) This antique piece is perfect for collectors of Egyptian artifacts...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass

Elegant Damascus Jewelry Box - Rectangular, Inlay Marquetry with Red Velvet
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the beauty of this elegant Damascus jewelry box, featuring intricate marquetry and a luxurious red velvet interior. This rectangular, flat box is ideal for storing jewelry, ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Velvet, Wood

Pair of Antique Hand-Painted Longwy Plates - "Vacance" Design, France, 2Y116
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this charming pair of antique Longwy plates, each featuring the delightful "Vacance" motif. Crafted in France, these plates b...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Hand-Painted Miniature House from Mallorca - Plaster Figurine - 2Y19
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a charming touch to your decor with this hand-painted miniature house from Mallorca. Crafted from plaster, this colorful figurine captures the essence of traditional architecture...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plaster

Antique 1950 Book - Mérimée s Colomba, Illustrated by Pierre Rousseau - 2Y129
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the classic tale of Colomba by Prosper Mérimée, beautifully illustrated by Pierre Rousseau in this 1950 edition published by Librairie Delagrave. This antique book is a piece of literary history, offering both captivating content and artistic visuals. The book shows signs of its age, with yellowed pages...
Category

1950s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage 20th Century Bronze Trinket Dish Signed "Clenget" - 2Y213
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of vintage elegance to your space with this 20th-century bronze trinket dish, signed "Clenget." This beautifully crafted piece serves a...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Bronze

Elegant Barometer and Thermometer with Copper Bas-Relief of a Woman - 2Y64
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your décor with this stunning barometer and thermometer featuring a detailed copper bas-relief of a woman. Combining functionality with art, ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Copper

Antique Book on Wool Fabrication - 1926 Edition by C. Thomas P. Araud, 2Y122
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the craftsmanship of wool fabric production with this antique book titled "La Fabrication du Drap," authored by Charles Thomas and Pierre Araud. Published by Léon Eyrolles i...
Category

1920s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Nidervillier "Ecume" Hand-Decorated Plate or Trinket Tray, Made in France, 2Y109
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This magnificent piece from Nidervillier, known for its intricate craftsmanship, serves as both a plate and a trinket tray. The "Ecume" design showcases a hand-decorated bicolore pat...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Antique Guatemalan Hand-Carved Wooden Mask Sculpture with Original Label - 2Y147
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming antique Guatemalan sculpture features a hand-carved wooden mask, complete with its original label on the back. The craftsmanship highlights the cultural heritage of Gua...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Jules Verne s "Hector Servadac" - Second Part, 9th Edition by Ed. Hetzel - 2Y76
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is the second part of Jules Verne's captivating novel "Hector Servadac," 9th edition, published by Ed. Hetzel. The book is in good condition, with a slightly worn cover and spin...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Lot of 3 Classical Vinyl Records - Beethoven, Luis Mariano, Strauss - 2Y18
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your classical music collection with this lot of 3 vinyl records featuring renowned composers and performers. This set includes works by Beethoven, Luis Mariano, and Strauss,...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Vintage 1915 Book "L Évangéliste" - Paris Modern-Bibliothèque - 2Y238
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is a vintage 1915 edition of "L'Évangéliste," published by Arthème Fayard in the Paris Modern-Bibliothèque collection. The book is in good condition for its age, with some signs...
Category

1910s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Antique Book by Ch. Deslys - "Les Récits de la Grève" 5th Edition, 2Y123
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the compelling narratives of historical struggles with this antique book by Ch. Deslys, titled "Les Récits de la Grève." Published by Librairie Ch. Delagrave, this 5th editio...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Jules Verne s "Hector Servadac" - First Part, 9th Edition by Ed. Hetzel - 2Y74
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is the first part of Jules Verne's adventure novel "Hector Servadac," 9th edition, published by Ed. Hetzel. The book is in fair condition, with a slightly worn cover and spine. ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Large Athénienne, 19th Century
Located in Greding, DE
Large Athénienne crafted from iron with a black patina, supported by three legs terminating in winged lion heads. Resting atop is a basin with gadrooned sides, a domed lid, and three...
Category

19th Century German Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Iron

Hand-Engraved Gilded Vase "India" – Elegant Vintage Decor - 2Y85
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Good condition overall. The base has some minor imperfections (see photos). Material: Brass with a hand-engraved design and gold finish. Design: Hand-engraved intricate pa...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass

Beautiful Hand-Carved Bas-Relief Storage or Jewelry Box - 2Y51
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite storage or jewelry box features hand-carved bas-relief detailing, showcasing expert craftsmanship. With its generous size and elegant design, this piece is perfect for...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Vintage Wooden Crucifix with Christ in Régule – Christian Symbolism, 2Y114
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautifully crafted vintage crucifix is a remarkable piece of religious art, combining the warmth of wood with the intricate detailing of the Christ figure in régule. This cruci...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage French Bourgeat Saucepan "Série Collectivité" Aluminum 18" - 2Y67
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautiful vintage Bourgeat saucepan from the "Série Collectivité" collection is crafted from durable aluminum and made in France. Perfect for both collectors and culinary enthus...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Aluminum

Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder Vinyl "We Are the World" - 2Y07
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Own a piece of musical history with this vintage 45 RPM vinyl record of USA for Africa's iconic single "We Are the World." Featuring legendary artists M...
Category

1980s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Antique Art Nouveau Coffee Pot – Brass Copper with Ornate Swing Arm - 2Y44
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the charm of Art Nouveau with this antique coffee pot featuring an intricate brass and copper design. This elegant piece showcases a distin...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass, Copper

Beautiful Hand-Painted Chinese Vase Signed "L art de Chine" - Macau - 2Y72
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite Chinese vase, signed "L'art de Chine," is a hand-painted piece created in Macau. The vase features intricate designs and delicate gilding, making it a stunning additio...
Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Beautiful Plaster House with "April 214 S.G.D.G" and "Bremail Inscription - 2Y35
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a charming and unique piece to your collection with this beautiful plaster house, inscribed with "April 214 S.G.D.G" and "Bremail." This detailed model is perfect for collectors ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plaster

Vintage Hand-Carved Wooden Elephant Figurine – Rustic Artisan Craft - 2Y178
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of rustic charm to your home decor with this petite hand-carved wooden elephant figurine. Perfect for collectors or as a thoughtful gift, this piece showcases the beauty ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Vintage Military Toy Car by France Jouets – Used Condition - 2Y38
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of history with this vintage military toy car from France Jouets. This classic collectible is a testament to mid-20th-century cra...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Antique Lithograph of a Drawing Signed by Jean Cocteau - 2Y236
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Fair Comments: The lithograph is in good condition, but the glass protecting it needs to be replaced due to multiple scratches. There is a small stain on the subject in th...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage 1940s Wooden Magazine Rack – Classic Storage for Newspapers - 2Y196
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage wooden magazine rack from the 1940s is a stylish and functional addition to your home or office. Designed to hold newspapers,...
Category

1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Small Marbled Onyx and Pewter Jug Vase – Elegant Decorative Piece - 2Y66
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Elevate your home décor with this small marbled onyx and pewter jug vase. This unique piece showcases the natural beauty of onyx with its captivating marbled pattern, complemented by...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Marble, Pewter

Vintage 20th Century Ceramic Lampshade Base with Bird and Flower Design - 2Y132
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of vintage elegance to your home with this beautifully crafted ceramic lampshade base from the 1970s. Featuring charming bird and flower decorations, this piece is perfec...
Category

1970s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Large Statuette of an Asian Woman with Peacock Decor - Resin - 2Y91
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Presenting a stunning large statuette of an Asian woman, exquisitely crafted in resin. This piece showcases intricate details, including a peacock, child, and other ornate decoration...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Resin

Antique 19th/Early 20th Century Commemorative Bronze Plaque - Gadzarts - 2Y183
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exceptional antique bronze plaque, dating from the 19th century or early 20th century, is a rare and significant piece associated with the ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Bronze

Antique 20th-Century Large Lamp Base and Lampshade with Decoration - 2Y181
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite lamp, from the mid-20th century, is a striking piece that combines a richly detailed ceramic base with a beautifully crafted lampshade. Adorned with a floral and manda...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Antique 1929 Book "Mésaventures de Kato" by Yvonne Lelong - 2Y235
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Fair Comments: The book is in good condition with some yellowing of the pages and slight wear on the spine. Please refer to the photos for more details. Author: Yvonne Lelong Publication Year: 1929 Language: French...
Category

1920s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

1928 First Communion Souvenir Portrait of Marcelle Girard - Framed - 2Y71
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This framed souvenir portrait commemorates the first communion of Marcelle Girard, which took place at the church of Bonnétable on June 10, 1928. The piece is in its original conditi...
Category

1920s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Book: Le Livre et les Arts qui s y Rattachent (1887) by M.P. Louisy- 2Y96
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This classic book, "Le Livre et les Arts qui s'y Rattachent", authored by M.P. Louisy, explores the relationship between books and the arts, providing valuable insights into the subj...
Category

1880s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Antique 20th Century Book by Paul Bourget "André Cornélis" - Paris - 2Y237
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Fair Comments: The book is in good condition. Please see the photos for more details. Author: Paul Bourget Title: "André Cornélis" Publisher: Arthème Fayard, Paris Modern-...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage JRD Berliet Relaxe Truck Toy- 2Y42
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of vintage transportation history with this classic JRD Berliet Relaxe truck. This small collectible features a Berliet cab and is a testament to mid-20th-century toy...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

A-Ha "Take on Me" 45 RPM Vinyl - Produced by Alan Tarney, 1985 - 2Y13
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Own a classic piece of music history with this 45 RPM vinyl record of A-Ha's hit single "Take on Me," produced by Alan Tarney in 1985. A quintessential track from the 80s, this recor...
Category

1980s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Vintage Small Floral Decor Ceramic Trinket Dish - 2Y58
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming small trinket dish features a delicate floral design, perfect for holding small items or simply adding a touch of vintage style to your décor. Crafted from quality cera...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Lot of 5 Crystal Wine Glasses - Mid 20th Century - 2Y27
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Elevate your dining experience with this set of 5 crystal wine glasses, likely from the mid-20th century. Crafted from fine crystal, these glasses are a sophisticated addition to any...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Crystal

Ancienne Lithographie "Le Divin Cœur de Jésus" - Christianisme, Religion - 2Y79
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is an antique lithograph titled "Le Divin Cœur de Jésus", representing a significant symbol of Christian devotion. The artwork features the Sacred Heart of Jesus with the inscri...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood, Paper

Antique book "Retour en Chrétienté" - Collection by J. Servel - 2Y36
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the insightful collection titled "Retour en Chrétienté" by J. Servel, a notable work reflecting on religious themes. Published by Édition du Chalet, this book is an essential...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage 1974 Matchbox Sherman Tank by Lesney - Battle Kings Series - 2Y194
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This collectible piece from the 1974 Matchbox Battle Kings series features the iconic Sherman tank. A must-have for vintage toy enthusiasts or military memorabilia collectors, this t...
Category

1970s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Renault Road Tractor Toy- 2Y41
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Introducing a classic piece of vintage machinery: this small Renault road tractor. This collectible toy tractor offers a glimpse into mid-20th-centur...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage 1965 Jean Ferrat Barclay Vinyl Record - 33 RPM - French Chanson - 2Y145
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover a classic piece of French chanson with this vintage 1965 Jean Ferrat vinyl record by Barclay, spinning at 33 RPM. This record captures the timeless voice of Jean Ferrat, a c...
Category

1960s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Vintage Corgi Daily Planet Miniature Helicopter - 1:43 Scale - 2Y220
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a piece of nostalgia to your collection with this vintage Corgi Daily Planet miniature helicopter. Crafted with attention to detail, this 1:43 scale non-military helicopter is a ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Charming Reproduction of a Painting by Maurice Vlaminck - Fauvism - 2Y83
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming reproduction captures the vibrant and expressive style of Maurice Vlaminck, a prominent figure in the Fauvism movement. The piece depicts a stranded boat in bold colors...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Canvas

Empire antiquities for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Empire antiquities for sale on 1stDibs. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee.

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