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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
Antique Faience Plate - 20th Century or Earlier, "Hamage Nord" Design- 2Y12
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover this exquisite antique faience plate from the 20th century or earlier, showcasing the distinctive "Hamage Nord" design with the captivat...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Faience

19th Century Eagle Painted Cast Iron Nut Cracker
Located in Stamford, CT
American 19th century eagle nut cracker. Cast iron with original painted finish.
Category

1880s American Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Iron

Set of 6 Chinese Porcelain Rice Bowls with 3 Spoons - 2Y49
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This set includes 6 beautifully crafted Chinese porcelain rice bowls and 3 matching spoons. The elegant design and traditional craftsmansh...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Vintage Two-Arm Brass Wall Sconce – 1940s Decorative Design - 2Y62
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of classic elegance to your interior with this vintage two-arm brass wall sconce. Dating from the 1940s, this beautifully crafted piece features ornate detailing and timeless style. Its warm brass finish exudes a vintage charm that can enhance any room. Type: Wall Sconce (Two-Arm) Sub-Type: Interior Lighting Material: Brass Style: 1940s Vintage Maximum Power: Less than 40 Watts Decorative Features: Ornate brass design Dimensions: Height (without bulb): 23.5 cm (9.3 inches) Width: 18.5 cm (7.3 inches) Weight: 630 grams (1.39 lbs) Condition: Good; some areas require polishing. The lamp holder is slightly damaged (see photos). This vintage brass wall sconce...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass

Lot of 3 Vinyl Records - Various Music Styles: G. Bécaud, Julio Iglesias - 2Y28
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This collection features 3 vinyl records from various musical styles, including artists G. Bécaud, Julio Iglesias, and Alibert. Each record brings a unique sound to your collection, ...
Category

Late 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Vintage 20th-Century Enameled Porcelain Pitcher with Grape Vine Leaf - 2Y156
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming vintage 20th-century porcelain pitcher features a beautifully enameled design of grapes and vine leaves. The delicate detailing on the vibrant grape clusters and leaves...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Pair of Vintage Brass Wall Sconces – Classic Design - 2Y60
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This pair of vintage brass wall sconces features a timeless design, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any room. The intricate detail...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass

Set of 5 Green Vintage Crystal Liqueur Glasses - 2Y174
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This elegant set of 5 liqueur glasses is crafted from fine crystal, featuring a beautiful green hue that adds a touch of sophistication to any setting. Ideal for special occasions or...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Crystal

Vintage Military Film with Metal Box "ECPA" - Protection Individuelle - 2Y205
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare militaria collectible features an old military film housed in its original metal box from the Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des Armées (ECPA). The film,...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Vesperal Missal for the Diocese of Bayeux and Lisieux - 2Y193
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A vintage religious artifact, this vesperal missal is specific to the Diocese of Bayeux and Lisieux, featuring details of its pilgrimages. Ideal for collectors of religious texts or those interested in historical Catholic items...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage Set of 6 Sarreguemines Plates with Floral Décor - 2Y160
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage set of six Sarreguemines plates features a charming floral décor, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your dining table. These p...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Œuvres complètes de J. de la Fontaine" Tome II, circa 1838, Ed. Lefèvre, 2Y110
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of literary history with this antique edition of "Œuvres complètes de J. de la Fontaine," Tome II, published by Ed. Lefèvre around 1838. This rare volume, featuring the complete works of the celebrated French fabulist Jean de la Fontaine, is a collector's gem. The book has aged gracefully but shows signs of its journey through time. The pages have absorbed some moisture, leading to slight warping, while the cover has begun to detach in certain areas. This gives the book a distinctive character that speaks to its long past. Era: Circa 1838 Condition: Fair (Shows signs of wear and moisture damage; cover partially detached) Dimensions: Height: 20 cm (7.87 inches) Length: 13 cm (5.12 inches) Thickness: 4 cm (1.57 inches) Weight: 654 grams (1.44 lbs) Despite its age-related imperfections, this book remains a valuable and intriguing addition to any antique book collection...
Category

1830s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Antique "Hamage Nord" Faience Plate - 20th Century - 2Y33
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the charm of vintage ceramics with this antique faience plate from "Hamage Nord," dating from the 20th century or earlier. Sign...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Faience

Jules Verne "Un Capitaine de Quinze Ans" - Second Part, Hetzel Edition - 2Y81
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A classic from Jules Verne, "Un Capitaine de Quinze Ans" (Second Part), published by Hetzel. This vintage edition is in good condition, featuring slight wear on the cover and spine. ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Book in French: En Famille by Victor Coupin - 2Y97
Located in Bordeaux, FR
En Famille by Victor Coupin is a literary work exploring family dynamics and relationships. The book reflects Coupin's insights into familial themes and societal norms of its time. ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Antique Large Oil Lamp - Pewter, No Hallmark - 2Y82
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A charming antique large oil lamp, likely made of pewter, though unmarked. This lamp, with its timeless design, is in fairly good condition and would m...
Category

1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Pewter

Elegant Ceramic Rose Trinket Dish or Paperweight - 2Y15
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your space with this beautiful small trinket dish or paperweight, featuring a delicate ceramic rose. Its charming design adds a touch of elegance to any desk or vanity. Prod...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Set of Two Vintage Régule Wall Sconces - 1970s Design - 2Y08
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your space with these elegant vintage régule wall sconces. Perfect for adding a retro touch to your interior, these sconces feature a distinctive 1970s design that brings uni...
Category

1970s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Les Carnets de René Mouchote - Original Edition by René Mouchote - 2Y137
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of history with Les Carnets de René Mouchote, a rare original edition by René Mouchote, the esteemed commander of the Alsace Group. This historical account offers a u...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Charming Vintage Enameled Vase with Twisted Rim - Multicolored Ceramic - 2Y144
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming vintage enameled vase is a delightful decorative piece, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any space. The vase features a unique twisted rim and is crafted from ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Lot of 3 Vintage 45 RPM Vinyl Records - G. Palma, Los Lobos, J.C. Borelly - 2Y06
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore this exclusive lot of 3 vintage 45 RPM vinyl records featuring iconic artists: G. Palma, Los Lobos, J.C. Borelly, and P. Martin. Perfect for col...
Category

1980s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Vintage 20th Century Book "Céleste Prudhomat" by Gustave Guiches - Paris - 2Y240
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage 20th-century book, titled "Céleste Prudhomat" by Gustave Guiches, is part of the Paris Modern-Bibliothèque collection, published by Arthème Fayard. The book is in good c...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Antique 20th Century Book by Eugène Montfort - "La chanson de Naple" - 2Y232
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Good Comments: The book is in good condition, with minor signs of wear consistent with its age. Please refer to the photos for additional details. Author: Eugène Montfort Title: "La chanson de Naple" Publisher: Arthème Fayard, Paris, Modern-bibliothèque Language: French Dimensions: Height: 27.5 cm (10.83 inches) Length: 24.5 cm (9.65 inches) Thickness: 1 cm (0.39 inches) Weight: 462 g (1.02 lbs) This antique 20th-century book by Eugène Montfort, "La chanson de Naple," is a notable addition to any literary collection. Published by Arthème Fayard, this volume offers a glimpse into early 20th-century French literature...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Les Grands Thèmes de l Art: L Évangile Illustré - Editions Des Horizons - 2Y176
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the beauty and depth of religious art with this captivating two-volume set, Les Grands Thèmes de l'Art: L'Évangile Illustré, published by Des Horizons de France. These illus...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage Military Film with Metal Box "ECPA" - Les Véhicules Blindés - 2Y208
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare piece of military history is a vintage film titled Les Véhicules Blindés (Armored Vehicles) encased in its original metal box, produced by the Établissement Cinématographiq...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Film with Box "ECPA" – "Énergie Nouvelle" (Program No. 8287) - 2Y203
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover this rare militaria piece featuring the vintage film "Énergie Nouvelle" from the "Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des Armées" (ECPA). This collectible incl...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Porcelain Bonbonnière with Floral Decoration Gold Trim - 2Y46
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite porcelain bonbonnière features elegant floral decoration and gold trim, adding a touch of sophistication to any collection. The signature is present but unfortunately ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Charming Oil Painting on Canvas – Village Church Scene - 2Y172
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautiful oil painting on canvas captures a serene village church, offering a timeless piece of art perfect for enhancing any space. With its warm tones and fine details, this a...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Canvas

Antique Book - Le Journal des Brodeuses, Special Issue March - 2Y134
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the artistry of embroidery with this antique book, Le Journal des Brodeuses, a special March issue. This vintage volume features 13 artistic bed l...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage Gravure "La Charette" by M. Lallane after Troyon, Circa 1860-1880, 2Y113
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite gravure, titled "La Charette," was created by the skilled artist M. Lallane after the renowned painter Troyon, dating back to the late 19th century (circa 1860-1880). ...
Category

1860s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Charming Small Terra Cotta Flower Pot with Vineyard Design - 2Y157
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming small flower pot is crafted from terra cotta and features a delightful vineyard design. Perfect for adding a touch of rustic charm to your home or garden. Material: Te...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Terracotta

Vintage 1989 Watercolor Drawing by Jacques Courtade, "Nude, Horse" - 2Y166
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage 1989 watercolor drawing by Jacques Courtade, titled "Nude, Horse," exemplifies the artist's mastery and evocative style. Signed by Courtade, this piece offers a striking...
Category

1980s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Les Autres Gens 06 07 book by Thomas Cadène - Editions Dupuis - 2Y149
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the engaging narrative of Les Autres Gens 06 07 by Thomas Cadène, published by Editions Dupuis. This book, presented in a standard format, showcases the unique storytelling s...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Modern Art Ceramic Pitcher Signed by Michel Poully - 2Y126
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this charming modern art ceramic pitcher, beautifully crafted and signed by the artist Michel Poully. This recent piece showcases elegant design and craf...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Histoire du Temps Passé: Les Récits de l Aïeule by E. Charpentier book - 2Y140
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Delve into the rich tapestry of history with Histoire du Temps Passé: Les Récits de l'Aïeule by E. Charpentier, a captivating 20th-century work. This historical book features 74 engravings that bring the past to life through vivid illustrations and detailed narratives. In fair condition, the book shows signs of aging with pages that have yellowed and some foxing. The binding is worn, and the gilding has faded. Despite these imperfections, the book remains a valuable and visually striking piece for collectors and enthusiasts of historical literature. Key Features: Title: Histoire du Temps Passé: Les Récits de l'Aïeule Author: E. Charpentier Edition: 20th Century Features: 74 engravings Condition: Fair; pages yellowed with foxing, worn binding, faded gilding (see photos) Language: French Pages: 319 Dimensions: Height: 30.5 cm (12 inches) Length: 23 cm (9 inches) Thickness: 4 cm (1.6 inches) Weight: 1.840 kg (4.06 lbs) This book offers a glimpse into historical narratives with its unique illustrations and is a wonderful addition to any vintage book collection.
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Book by E. Gochot: Voyage à la Ferme Illustrated with Engravings- 2Y94
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming book titled "Voyage à la Ferme" by E. Gochot offers a delightful exploration of farm life, illustrated with twenty-seven detailed engravings. It's an engaging read for ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Book by Eugène Nyon: "Les Cœurs d Or" - Illustrated with 16 Drawings - 2Y92
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A charming vintage book titled "Les Cœurs d'Or" by Eugène Nyon, featuring 16 exquisite two-tone illustrations. This work is a beautiful example of classic French literature...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

J. Bonin Painting "Au pays du Mont-Blanc" - December 1992, Signed - 2Y77
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite oil painting by J. Bonin, titled "Au pays du Mont-Blanc," captures the serene beauty of the Mont-Blanc region with its majestic mountains and charming chalet. Painted ...
Category

1990s French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Canvas

Lot of 3 Vinyl Records - Emmio Marricane, Juliette Gréco, Joza Vlahovic - 2Y16
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore this diverse collection of 3 vinyl records featuring a range of musical styles from different artists. This set includes works by Emmio Marricane, Juliette Gréco, and Joza Vl...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Lot of 6 Vintage 45 RPM Vinyl Records - Break Machine, Apache, A-Ha - 2Y10
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Expand your collection with this lot of 6 vintage 45 RPM vinyl records, featuring a diverse selection of artists and hits. Each record offers a unique s...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Vintage Military Film with Metal Box "ECPA" - Se Poster Se Déplacer - 2Y206
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare piece of militaria history features a vintage military training film housed in its original metal box from the Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des Armées ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Large and Elegant Charcoal Drawing by "Cyo" Dated April 30, 2002 - 2Y167
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This grand and exquisite charcoal drawing, signed by the artist "Cyo" and dated April 30, 2002, captures the intricate detail and depth of charcoal artistry. Its substantial size and...
Category

Early 2000s French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

La Folle Aventure by André Lichtenberger, 1913 Edition - 2Y150
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is an original 1913 edition of La Folle Aventure by André Lichtenberger, featuring illustrations by Robert Kastor as part of the Lafitte collection. The book has 122 pages and i...
Category

1910s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Lot of 3 Vintage Books: Les Yeux Verts, Monsieur de Courpière Marie... - 2Y138
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover this intriguing lot of three vintage books, featuring a diverse selection of titles that offer a glimpse into classic literature. Each book in this collection is in good con...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage 20th Century Metal Lampshade Base with Functional Pulley - 1940s - 2Y130
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of vintage charm to your home with this antique 20th-century lampshade base, featuring a unique functional pulley system. This sturdy metal base, designed between the 194...
Category

1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Histoire du pays de Neuchâtel from Prehistory to the Middle Ages Volume 1- 2Y108
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This compelling historical book, Histoire du pays de Neuchâtel, covers the region's journey from prehistory through the Middle Ages. This is Volume 1 of the series. The book is well-...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Elegant Watercolor by Ludo - Reclining Nude Woman, Back View - 2Y88
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This elegant watercolor, signed by the artist Ludo, depicts a serene scene of a nude woman lying down, viewed from behind. The artwork captures the ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood, Paper

"France Since Its Origins Until 1789" by E. Guillon - Illustrated Edition - 2Y70
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautiful book, "La France Depuis ses Origines Jusqu'en 1789" by E. Guillon, offers a comprehensive historical account of France up to 1789, richly illustrated with numerous eng...
Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Large Sarreguemines Faience Salad Bowl with Tulip Flower Design - France - 2Y52
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This stunning large salad bowl from Sarreguemines, France, features a charming tulip flower design, showcasing the fine craftsmanship of French faience. Perfect for both everyday use...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Faience

Lot of 3 Music Story Vinyl Records - Volumes 1, 9, 10 (33 RPM) - 2Y37
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This set features three classic vinyl records from the "Music Story" series, including volumes 1, 9, and 10. Each record offers a diverse selection of musical styles and artists, providing a nostalgic listening experience for vinyl enthusiasts. Product Details: Type: Vinyl Records Series: Music Story Volumes Included: 1, 9, 10 Speed: 33 RPM Artists Featured: Volume 1: Little Eva, Chubby Checker, Alan...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Vintage 60 s Enamel Metal Hanging Lamp – Retro Suspension Light - 2Y05
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage 60's enamel metal hanging lamp is a charming piece from the mid-20th century. With its classic design and durable materials, it adds a touch of retro style to any interi...
Category

1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Lot of 3 Vinyl Records – M. Le Forestier, C. Luter, M. Larcange 33 RPM - 2Y04
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This lot includes three vinyl records featuring the works of M. Le Forestier, C. Luter, and M. Larcange. Each album showcases diverse styles, making this collection a valuable additi...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

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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