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 Renault 300 Kgs Toy Car by C.I.J - Made in France - 2Y21
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover this charming vintage toy car, a Renault 300 Kgs model by C.I.J, proudly made in France. This collectible piece reflects classic toy craftsmanship and is sold "as is" with i...
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 Miniature Anti-Tank Cannon - The Crescent Toys Militaria - 2Y34
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of historical charm to your collection with this vintage miniature anti-tank cannon by The Crescent Toys. Part of their militaria range, this collectible features detaile...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Metal
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
Vintage Canon Prima Zoom 76 Camera with 38-76mm 1:3.8-7.2 Lens - 2Y212
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the charm of film photography with this vintage Canon Prima Zoom 76 camera, featuring a versatile 38-76mm 1:3.8-7.2 lens. This classic point-and-...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Metal
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
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 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
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
Vintage 20th Century Wooden Crucifix with Christ Figure in Spelter - 2Y189
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage 20th-century crucifix is a beautiful and reverent piece, featuring a wooden cross and a Christ figure made of spelter. It would make a meaningful addition to any religio...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Spelter
Vintage Polistil Ferrari 308 Die-Cast Model Car - Made in Italy - 2Y190
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage Polistil Ferrari 308 die-cast model car is a collectible piece made in Italy, representing the iconic Ferrari 308. Despite its age, it retains much of its original charm...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Metal
Antique Copper Cauldron - "Poitiers" Engraved, Decorative Piece - 2Y14
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This antique copper cauldron, engraved with "Poitiers," is a stunning decorative piece that adds a touch of vintage charm to any setting. Its classic design and fine craftsmanship ma...
Category
Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Copper
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
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
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
Elegant Syrian Jewelry Box - Rectangular, Inlay Marquetry with Red Velvet - 2Y29
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the beauty of this elegant Syrian jewelry box, featuring intricate marquetry and a luxurious red velvet interior. This rectangular, flat box is ideal for storing jewelry, ke...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Velvet, Wood
Charming Lithograph by Jean Pierre Bertaux "Le Marais" with Certificate - 2Y173
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This captivating lithograph titled "Le Marais" by Jean Pierre Bertaux showcases a serene and picturesque marsh scene. Accompanied by a numbered certificate of authentication (No. 45)...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
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
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
Set of 4 Small Animal Figurines - Duck and Rabbit Statuettes - 2Y30
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this charming set of 4 small figurines featuring ducks and rabbits. These modern, multicolored statuettes are perfect for adding a whimsical touch to any...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Wood
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 Hanging Sculpture of a Woman by Igor S. Stéphano - Numbered 611 - 2Y143
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite vintage hanging sculpture by Igor S. Stéphano captures the elegance and grace of a woman in stunning detail. Made of ceramic and porcelain, the sculpture showcases vib...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Ceramic, Porcelain
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
Vintage 1947 Watercolor Drawing by Jacques Courtade, Signed "Holoum 47" - 2Y163
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage watercolor drawing from 1947 by Jacques Courtade, titled "Holoum 47," is a striking example of his work, signed and numbered 315. It captures a moment in time with Court...
Category
1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Vintage Vallauris Large Dish – 50 cm Pocket Tray with Signature - 2Y197
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Elevate your decor with this exquisite large dish from Vallauris, perfect as a decorative tray or pocket dish. Its signature craftsmanship and substantial size make it a versatile piece for both display and practical use.
Material: Ceramic
Signature: Vallauris
Length: 50 cm (19.7 inches)
Width: 26.5 cm (10.4 inches)
Height: 7 cm (2.8 inches)
Weight: 1.957 kg (4.3 lbs)
Condition: Good condition with one noticeable chip on the edge and several small chips; underside shows slight wear (see photos for details)
This Vallauris dish...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Ceramic
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
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
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
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
Antique Hand-Carved Maya Wooden Mask - Indigenous American Art, 2Y119
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this exquisite antique Maya mask, a stunning example of Indigenous American art. Hand-carved from wood, this mask showcases intr...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Wood
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
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 Enamel Pitcher in Blue and Brown Terracotta - 2Y141
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this charming vintage enamel pitcher, crafted from terracotta and adorned in a beautiful blue and brown color schem...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Terracotta
Vintage 1944 Large Signed and Numbered Lithograph – Landscape by Leonard - 2Y175
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite vintage lithograph, dating back to 1944, captures a serene landscape scene, beautifully rendered and signed by the artist, Leonard (though the exact name is uncertain). The piece is also numbered, adding to its uniqueness and value as a collectible item. This lithograph is a testament to mid-20th-century artistry, making it an ideal addition to any collection of vintage art...
Category
1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
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 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
Vintage Watercolor Drawing by Jacques Courtade, "La Mort Invitée" N72 - 2Y165
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage watercolor drawing by Jacques Courtade, titled "La Mort Invitée," is an evocative piece that captures the artist's unique style and depth. Numbered 72, this artwork is a...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
19th Century Pewter Plate with Handle – "Les étains de la tour" - 2Y225
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Pre-owned
Comments: Good condition for its age. Shows signs of use with scratches throughout and some oxidation. Needs polishing. Please refer to the photos for more detai...
Category
1820s French Antique Empire Antiquities
Materials
Pewter
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
Jules Verne "L'île mystérieuse" book - 12th Edition, Ed. Hetzel - 2Y78
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is the 12th edition of Jules Verne’s classic novel, L'île mystérieuse (Deuxième Partie), published by Éditions Hetzel. The book is in decent condition, with a cover and spine sh...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Vintage Alabaster and Brass Lamp Base with Lampshade - 2Y227
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Pre-owned
Comments: In good condition. The lamp is functional, but the electrical wiring is not up to modern standards. The lampshade has small stains, a slight tear, and ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Alabaster, Brass
Pitcher "Savines les Lacs" Genuine High-Fired Flame Glazed Stoneware - 2Y210
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming pitcher, carafe, or jug from "Savines les Lacs" is crafted from genuine high-fired flame-glazed stoneware. It boasts a rustic yet elegant design, making it a versatile ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Stoneware
Rare Military Collection – Vintage Film with Box "ECPA" - 2Y201
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare militaria piece features a vintage film titled "Les Bruits du Champ de Bataille" from the "Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Metal
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
Antique Vintage Lamp Base in Alabaster and Brass with Lampshade - 2Y231
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Good
Comments: The lamp is in working condition, though the electrical wiring does not meet modern standards. The alabaster and brass lamp base is in good condition, with ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Alabaster, Brass
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
Vintage 20th Century Hammered Brass Ashtray - 2Y214
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage hammered brass ashtray, dating from the 20th century or earlier, is a fine example of craftsmanship that adds a touch of timeless elegance to any setting. Whether used a...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Brass
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
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
Hammered Copper Bas-Relief of Poseidon's Head – Exquisite Detail - 2Y59
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This finely detailed hammered copper bas-relief depicts the majestic head of Poseidon, showcasing the craftsmanship of this stunning piece. The intricate detailing highlights the pow...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Copper
Antique Vintage Wall Art Signed Vallauris "A. Camgo" - 2Y230
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Good
Comments: This vintage wall piece is in good condition, though the signature is slightly faded, and there are minor paint chips. Please refer to the photos for detailed condition.
Artist: A. Camgo (Signature slightly faded)
Material: Ceramic
Dimensions:
Height: 15 cm (5.91 inches)
Length: 10.5 cm (4.13 inches)
Thickness: 6.5 cm (2.56 inches)
Weight: 275 gr (0.61 lbs)
This vintage ceramic...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Ceramic
Jules Gourdault's "La Suisse Pittoresque" - Second Edition c. 1882 - 2Y69
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is a second edition of "La Suisse Pittoresque" by Jules Gourdault, published by Librairie Hachette. The book is in fairly good condition, with some wear on the cover, slightly yellowed pages...
Category
1880s French Antique 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
Bécassine Nourrice - 1924 Edition by Ed. de la "Semaine de Suzette" - 2Y24
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Delve into the world of Bécassine with this original 1924 edition of "Bécassine Nourrice," published by Ed. de la "Semaine de Suzette" and illustrated by Pinchon. This classic volume...
Category
1920s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Antique 19th-Century 1873 Engraving by Antonin Delzers - 2Y170
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This antique 1873 engraving by Antonin Delzers is a fine example of 19th-century craftsmanship. Executed with meticulous detail using the burin technique, the piece showcases Delzers...
Category
1870s French Antique Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Antique Vintage Clay Pitcher "Scheurich" W. Germany, Numbered 404-16 - 2Y127
Located in Bordeaux, FR
I am offering this charming antique clay pitcher by "Scheurich," a renowned German pottery manufacturer, numbered 404-16. Originating from West G...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Clay
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
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.