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Federal Books

FEDERAL STYLE

Following the Revolutionary War, the American republic referenced the Roman Republic in its designs to celebrate its independence and declare itself a powerful new country. Imbued with neoclassical elements like those being promoted by architect Robert Adam in Great Britain, antique Federal-style furniture was the first distinctly American style in its melding of ancient influences, European aesthetics and national pride.

Dating roughly from 1790 to 1830, the style featured angular furniture with saber legs and smooth surfaces that contrasted with the curvy Rococo style that was previously in fashion. Eagles were common ornamental motifs on Federal-period furniture, as were cornucopia, lyres, garlands and scrolls, adding subtle flair to pieces characterized by clean lines, geometric symmetry, balanced shapes and a sense of grandeur.

Instead of sculptural carvings, authentic Federal-style furniture was adorned with inlays and patterned veneers that showcased the rich character of different grains and types of wood. As social life tended to be informal in the young country, furniture was often lightweight, so it could be easily rearranged in a drawing room or bedroom. Pieces like dining tables with drop leaves and sideboards became popular, replacing larger chests of drawers.

The Federal style varied by region: Artisans in Charleston, South Carolina, decorated chairs with carved backs, for instance, while those in Baltimore, Maryland, preferred painted details. Its major proponents included father-and-son cabinetmakers John and Thomas Seymour in Boston, Duncan Phyfe and Charles-Honoré Lannuier in New York and Samuel McIntire in Salem, Massachusetts.

Find antique Federal tables, mirrors, storage cabinets and other Federal furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

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Style: Federal
An Interesting Account of the Voyages and Travels of Captains Lewis and Clarke
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
Fisher, William. An Interesting Account of the Voyages and Travels of Captains Lewis and Clarke, in the Years 1804-5, & 6... Baltimore: P. Mauro, 1813. 12mo. Illustrated. Rebound in...
Category

1810s American Antique Federal Books

Materials

Leather, Paper

The Works of Dr. Benjamin Franklin, with His Life, Written by Himself, 1835
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
Franklin, Benjamin. The Works of Dr. Benjamin Franklin, Consisting of Essays, Humorous, Moral, and Literary, with His Life, Written by Himself. Exeter: J & B Williams, 1835. In origi...
Category

1830s American Antique Federal Books

Materials

Leather, Fabric, Paper

Works of the Late Doctor Benjamin Franklin, With Essays, in Two Volumes, 1796
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
Franklin, Benjamin. Works of the Late Doctor Benjamin Franklin, Consisting of His Life Written by Himself together with Essays, Humorous, Moral & Literary, Chiefly in the Manner of t...
Category

1790s English Antique Federal Books

Materials

Leather, Paper

The Pennsylvania Journal and The Weekly Advertiser, Issued June 16, 1787
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
Presented is an June 16, 1787 issue of Philadelphia's "The Pennsylvania Journal, and The Weekly Advertiser," containing coverage of the Constitutional Convention. The magazine period...
Category

1780s American Antique Federal Books

Materials

Leather, Fabric, Paper

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Attractive Antique Map of the World as Planisphere, Shows Cook s Voyages, 1799
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Attractive Antique Map of the World as Planisphere, Shows Cook
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Political Terracotta Portrait Medallion Benjamin Franklin JeanBaptiste Nini 1777
Located in Portland, OR
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Set of Seven Leather Volumes of Daniel De Foe s Works
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1808 The Works of John Dryden
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Paper

1808 The Works of John Dryden
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Early 19th Century English Antique Federal Books

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Joe s – FIRST ISSUE – The iconic fashion photography magazine by Joe McKenna
Located in Middletown, NY
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Original Antique Map of The World by Dower, circa 1835
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Previously Available Items
Washington s Farewell Address to the People of the United States, 1812
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
Washington's Farewell Address to the People of the United States. Springfield: Thomas Dickman for the Washington Benevolent Society, 1812. In original hardcover boards with brown lea...
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1810s American Antique Federal Books

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Eulogies and Orations on the Life and Death of General George Washington, 1800
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The Lives of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence by N. Dwight, 1860
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The Life of George Washington by Jared Sparks, Later Printing, 1854
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A Sermon Preached Before John Hancock, etc. by Samuel Cooper, 1st Edition, 1780
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
Cooper, Samuel. A Sermon Preached Before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq; Governour, the Honourable the Senate, and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Oc...
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The Federalist, on the New Constitution by Publius, Second Edition, 2 Vols, 1802
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
Hamilton, Alexander, James Madison, and John Jay. The Federalist, on the New Constitution. By Publius. Written in 1788. To Which is Added, Pacificus, on the Proclamation of Neutralit...
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Mental Museum for the Rising Generation, by Jesse Torrey Jr., 1829
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Jeffersons Notes on the State of Virginia 2nd Edition, Important Book
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Federal books for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Federal books for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the Late 20th Century, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage books created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include more furniture and collectibles and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with paper, animal skin and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Federal books made in a specific country, there are North America, and United States pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original books, popular names associated with this style include and Charles-Honoré Lannuier. 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. Prices for books differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $60 and tops out at $750 while the average work can sell for $405.

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