Skip to main content

Empire Decorative Objects

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.

to
133
1,047
12
1
30
840
177
13
54
56
36
10
5
3
3
6
25
17
10
4
27,331
14,085
9,641
5,741
4,076
3,086
2,333
1,684
1,547
1,429
1,281
1,268
1,060
904
892
663
627
621
883
600
251
164
148
506
466
959
735
100
43
25
Height
to
Width
to
1,060
1,048
1,059
45
31
12
11
4
Style: Empire
Birth of the King of Rome, Bronze Clock, 19th Century
Birth of the King of Rome, Bronze Clock, 19th Century

Birth of the King of Rome, Bronze Clock, 19th Century

Located in MARSEILLE, FR

Patinated bronze clock representing The Birth of the King of Rome or the allegory of the Birth of Love Empress Marie-Louise is standing near a cradle filled with roses with a winged cupid in the middle; decor of an Athenian woman with rams' heads and a curtain draped...

Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Wonderful Pair French Empire Figural Bronze Patinated Regency 2 Arm Wall Sconces
Wonderful Pair French Empire Figural Bronze Patinated Regency 2 Arm Wall Sconces

Wonderful Pair French Empire Figural Bronze Patinated Regency 2 Arm Wall Sconces

Located in Roslyn, NY

A wonderful pair of very fine French empire doré bronze and patinated figural women two-arm sconces, rewired with new candelabra sockets and ready to install with supplied mounting b...

Category

20th Century French Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Pair of Antique French Empire Style Figural Patinated and Gilt Bronze Candelabra
Pair of Antique French Empire Style Figural Patinated and Gilt Bronze Candelabra

Pair of Antique French Empire Style Figural Patinated and Gilt Bronze Candelabra

Located in New York, NY

A pair of spectacular and prominent antique French Empire-style figural patinated and gilt bronze candelabra. Each candelabrum takes the form of a fully modeled winged female figure,...

Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Griotte Marble, Bronze

Pair of Empire Period Silver Candlesticks England circa 1820
Pair of Empire Period Silver Candlesticks England circa 1820

Pair of Empire Period Silver Candlesticks England circa 1820

Located in New York, NY

A fine pair of Empire period standard silver candlesticks from England circa 1820. Each stick has a squared tapered shaft decorated with still-leafed border as well as beaded bandi...

Category

1820s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Silver

French  Empire Gilt and Patinated Bronze Clock of a Seated Roman Emperor
French  Empire Gilt and Patinated Bronze Clock of a Seated Roman Emperor

French Empire Gilt and Patinated Bronze Clock of a Seated Roman Emperor

By Claude Galle

Located in Vancouver, British Columbia

A late French Empire period mantel (fireplace) clock showing a seated Roman emperor in finely chased patinated bronze holding a sword in one hand and a Roman banner in the other. He ...

Category

1810s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Pair of Empire Candelabra with Green Marble Bases & 4 Candle Holders
Pair of Empire Candelabra with Green Marble Bases & 4 Candle Holders

Pair of Empire Candelabra with Green Marble Bases & 4 Candle Holders

Located in Atlanta, GA

These pair of Empire candelabras feature angles holding 4 candleholders atop a green marble base.

Category

19th Century European Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Marble

Antique French Empire Figural Bronze Sphinx Green Marble Desk Top Double Inkwell
Antique French Empire Figural Bronze Sphinx Green Marble Desk Top Double Inkwell

Antique French Empire Figural Bronze Sphinx Green Marble Desk Top Double Inkwell

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Antique French Empire Figural Bronze Sphinx Green Marble Desk Top Double Inkwell. Item features decorative cast bronze sphinx like figures all mounted on an oval green marble base wh...

Category

Early 20th Century Unknown Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

A pair of Empire Swedish pewter candlesticks made 1820.
A pair of Empire Swedish pewter candlesticks made 1820.

A pair of Empire Swedish pewter candlesticks made 1820.

Located in Stockholm, SE

A distinguished pair of Swedish pewter candlesticks by Nils Eric Justelius, dated 1820. Executed in the Empire style, the candlesticks display elegant neoclassical proportions with t...

Category

1820s Swedish Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Pewter

Pair of Exquisite French Empire Gilt Bronze Two-Light Candelabra ca 1810
Pair of Exquisite French Empire Gilt Bronze Two-Light Candelabra ca 1810

Pair of Exquisite French Empire Gilt Bronze Two-Light Candelabra ca 1810

By Pierre-Philippe Thomire

Located in Boven Leeuwen, NL

These candlesticks are ornate artifacts from the French Empire period, which dates back to the early 19th century, typically considered as the reign of Napoleon I from 1804 to 1814. ...

Category

1810s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Gold, Bronze

19th Century Swedish Candelabra
19th Century Swedish Candelabra

19th Century Swedish Candelabra

Located in Allerum, SE

Pair of fine 19th century Swedish Empire gilt and patinated bronze candelabra, circa 1830, Stockholm, Sweden.

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

French Empire Antique Clock, Ormolu, Patinated Bronze and Marble
French Empire Antique Clock, Ormolu, Patinated Bronze and Marble

French Empire Antique Clock, Ormolu, Patinated Bronze and Marble

By L. Ravrio 1

Located in London, GB

French Empire clock of stunning quality of borne shape constructed of rouge marble, original fire gilt ormolu and patinated bronze. The dial of the clock is signed "L Ravrio" below 1...

Category

Early 1800s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Marble, Bronze, Ormolu

Large Vintage Tole Jardinière, Made In France
Large Vintage Tole Jardinière, Made In France

Large Vintage Tole Jardinière, Made In France

Located in Doraville, GA

A chic French gilded tole pedestal jardinière or cache pot with ring handles. Signed "Made In France". The chic jardinière is a commanding large size with a fine hand painted gilt fl...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Iron, Tin

20th Century Italian Solid Silver Inkstans Empyre Style
20th Century Italian Solid Silver Inkstans Empyre Style

20th Century Italian Solid Silver Inkstans Empyre Style

By Arno Fassi

Located in VALENZA, IT

Empire style 800 silver inkstand The base of the inkstand, completely handmade, is shaped like a "cathedral". The classic "palmettes" of the Empire style have been chiseled around i...

Category

1990s Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Silver

Pair Italian Empire Period Brass 3-Light Figural Candelabras, Early 19th Century
Pair Italian Empire Period Brass 3-Light Figural Candelabras, Early 19th Century

Pair Italian Empire Period Brass 3-Light Figural Candelabras, Early 19th Century

Located in Atlanta, GA

Finely cast and supported by circular bases, the tops issuing two arms with single candleholders with a central figural candleholder.

Category

Early 19th Century Italian Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Brass

Auguste Cain Silvered Bronze Lion & Ostrich Sculpture 19th Century.
Auguste Cain Silvered Bronze Lion & Ostrich Sculpture 19th Century.

Auguste Cain Silvered Bronze Lion & Ostrich Sculpture 19th Century.

By Susse Freres, Auguste Nicholas Cain

Located in Buenos Aires, Olivos

Auguste Cain Silvered Bronze Lion & Ostrich (1822-1894). This fine bronze shows a male lion standing proud, his front right foot is perched on a rock and his left stands firmly on his pray, an ostrich; he has a full mane and a curling tail, has good detail in the fur and the feathers of the ostrich. Signed "A. Cain" and a foundry mark. Perfect Size to locate on a desk. Auguste Nicholas Cain (1821 – 1894) was a Paris born French sculptor in the Animaliers school who was known for his bronze sculptures...

Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

French Empire Gilt Bronze and Slate Mantel Clock by J.E. Caldwell
French Empire Gilt Bronze and Slate Mantel Clock by J.E. Caldwell

French Empire Gilt Bronze and Slate Mantel Clock by J.E. Caldwell

By J.E. Caldwell & Co.

Located in Astoria, NY

French Gilt Bronze and Black Slate Mercury Compensated Mantel Clock, retailed by J.E. Caldwell & Co., Philadelphia, early 20th century, the arched case in the French Empire style...

Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Slate, Bronze

Important  Pair of Darte Frere  early 19th C.  French Empire  Porcelain  Vases
Important  Pair of Darte Frere  early 19th C.  French Empire  Porcelain  Vases

Important Pair of Darte Frere early 19th C. French Empire Porcelain Vases

Located in New York, NY

Pair of Paris Darte Freres Porcelain Portrait Vases with Gold-Ground Acanthus Scroll Form Handles and etched gold back C. 1810 This set consists of two Baluster form vases with hand painted with portraits of peasant women protecting children from a lightning storm...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Gold

Pair of French Empire Brass Candle Sconces, Swan Design, Antique, 1820
Pair of French Empire Brass Candle Sconces, Swan Design, Antique, 1820

Pair of French Empire Brass Candle Sconces, Swan Design, Antique, 1820

Located in Austin, TX

Candle holder sconces from France from the Empire period. This finely cast pair of sconces features a solid brass structure with a swan holding two chained candle...

Category

1820s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Pair of multi-light candelabra, 19th century.
Pair of multi-light candelabra, 19th century.

Pair of multi-light candelabra, 19th century.

Located in Cuneo, Italy (CN)

This pair of multi-light candelabras (fan-shaped candelabras) is remarkable both for the choice of materials and for its refined stylistic execution. In the neoclassical style of the...

Category

19th Century Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Marble, Bronze

Pair of French Empire Candlesticks in Gilt and Patinated Bronze, Circa 1810
Pair of French Empire Candlesticks in Gilt and Patinated Bronze, Circa 1810

Pair of French Empire Candlesticks in Gilt and Patinated Bronze, Circa 1810

Located in Kastrup, DK

A pair of French Empire candlesticks in gilt and patinated bronze. Slender, gently tapering fluted stems with gilt bronze mounts to the top and bottom, decorated with acanthus leave...

Category

1810s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

20th Century French Empire Blue Urn Vase with Gold Decoration, Jaget & Pinon
20th Century French Empire Blue Urn Vase with Gold Decoration, Jaget & Pinon

20th Century French Empire Blue Urn Vase with Gold Decoration, Jaget & Pinon

Located in Sofia, BG

Amphora-shaped vase and in the Empire style, circa 1920, France made of earthenware with a marine-blue background with gold decorations in the spirit of Sèvres. Round neck surrounded...

Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Decorative Objects

Danish Late Empire Tobacco Box in Nobel Wood, Lid with Walrus Tooth
Danish Late Empire Tobacco Box in Nobel Wood, Lid with Walrus Tooth

Danish Late Empire Tobacco Box in Nobel Wood, Lid with Walrus Tooth

Located in Kastrup, DK

Late empire tobacco box in rosewood. The top of the lid is adorned with a walrus tooth. Denmark 1830-1840.

Category

Early 19th Century Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Hardwood

Antique French Empire Straight Crystal Vases with Ormolu Detail
Antique French Empire Straight Crystal Vases with Ormolu Detail

Antique French Empire Straight Crystal Vases with Ormolu Detail

Located in Toronto, ON

This gorgeous pair of Empire period French antique straight crystal vases epitomizes classic elegance and timeless beauty. The crystal is expertly crafted, offering a clear, radiant ...

Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Crystal, Ormolu

Empire-style pendulum clock made of fire-gilded bronze
Empire-style pendulum clock made of fire-gilded bronze

Empire-style pendulum clock made of fire-gilded bronze

Located in Berlin, DE

Directoire 1780-1795 Architektur-Pendule mit vier Säulen Weißer Marmor mit feuervergoldeten Applikationen Signiert auf dem weißen Emailzifferblatt Jeanperin a Paris Höhe 35 cm ...

Category

1790s Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

A Pair of Large French Empire Parcel-Gilt Floor Candelabras, 19th Century
A Pair of Large French Empire Parcel-Gilt Floor Candelabras, 19th Century

A Pair of Large French Empire Parcel-Gilt Floor Candelabras, 19th Century

Located in ARMADALE, VIC

A Pair of Large French Empire Parcel-Gilt Floor Candelabras, 19th Century Description: Each with a tapered faux marble column shaft rising to double foliate collar and leaf carved d...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Wood

Empire Ormolu and Patinated Bronze Figural Clock
Empire Ormolu and Patinated Bronze Figural Clock

Empire Ormolu and Patinated Bronze Figural Clock

Located in Kittery Point, ME

In the form of a putto with a wheel barrow carrying a keg mounted with a clock face topped by a crane, on a rectangular chased plinth ending in bun feet.

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Tripod Cachepot Brass Bowl
Tripod Cachepot Brass Bowl

Tripod Cachepot Brass Bowl

$850Sale Price|29% Off

Tripod Cachepot Brass Bowl

Located in Sheffield, MA

Charmingly elegant antique Empire style brass bowl centerpiece on tripod hoofed feet and decorative handles in an 'abstract' animal form. Lovely aged brass patina all-over, can easil...

Category

19th Century European Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Brass

Empire Mahogany Grandfather Clock, early 19th Century
Empire Mahogany Grandfather Clock, early 19th Century

Empire Mahogany Grandfather Clock, early 19th Century

Located in Greding, DE

Large Empire grandfather clock with a mahogany-veneered case in the shape of a lyre. The grandfather clock stands on a chest with three drawers and diamond-shaped fillings. Above it ...

Category

Early 19th Century German Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Enamel

Pair of Empire-Style Bronze and Siena Marble Candlesticks – Circa 1830
Pair of Empire-Style Bronze and Siena Marble Candlesticks – Circa 1830

Pair of Empire-Style Bronze and Siena Marble Candlesticks – Circa 1830

Located in IT

This exquisite pair of Empire-style candlesticks from circa 1830 features intricate bronze detailing atop rich Siena marble bases. Resting on tripod bases with lion paw feet, these c...

Category

1830s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Siena Marble, Bronze

French Empire Bronze Inkwell in Napoleon Casket Design, 19th Century
French Empire Bronze Inkwell in Napoleon Casket Design, 19th Century

French Empire Bronze Inkwell in Napoleon Casket Design, 19th Century

Located in Queens, NY

French Empire parcel gilt bronze model tomb of Emperor Napoleon I French Empire (19th Century) bronze inkwell in the form of Napoleon's casket covered by a drape cover with a crown finial...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

French Pair of Gilt Bronze Candelabra with Putti Empire Period 19th Century
French Pair of Gilt Bronze Candelabra with Putti Empire Period 19th Century

French Pair of Gilt Bronze Candelabra with Putti Empire Period 19th Century

Located in Milano, MI

From a luxury villa at Como Lake a stunning pair of early 19th century Empire four-light gilt bronze figural candelabras, of French origin, dating back to circa 1810, measure: 31.50 ...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Pair of Danish Candlesticks
Pair of Danish Candlesticks

Pair of Danish Candlesticks

Located in New York, NY

A pair of Danish Empire painted and bone candlesticks, circa 1810, of baluster form carved bone bandings and a circular base.

Category

19th Century Danish Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Mantel clock from the French Empire of the early 19th century 'Apollo, playing
Mantel clock from the French Empire of the early 19th century 'Apollo, playing

Mantel clock from the French Empire of the early 19th century 'Apollo, playing

Located in Berlin, DE

A mantel clock from the Empire period (1790-1820) in France. Made of patinated, gilded bronze. The Greek god Apollo plays the lyre while his feet rest on a gilded stool. Large pendul...

Category

1810s Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Gold, Bronze

Large Blue and Gold Porcelain Vase
Large Blue and Gold Porcelain Vase

Large Blue and Gold Porcelain Vase

Located in Prato, IT

Germany, mid-20th century In blue and gold painted porcelain Dimensions cm W38 x D25 x H52 approx.

Category

Mid-20th Century German Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Porcelain

Exceptional Pair of French Late Empire Gilt-bronze Candelabra Attributed to Pier
Exceptional Pair of French Late Empire Gilt-bronze Candelabra Attributed to Pier

Exceptional Pair of French Late Empire Gilt-bronze Candelabra Attributed to Pier

By Pierre-Philippe Thomire

Located in Benington, Herts

A pair of exceptionally elegant and important late Empire five-light figural candelabra ‘A la Victoire’ in gilt-bronze, attributed to Pierre-Philippe Thomire, after a design by Charles Percier. Imposing size at 81cm in height. French Paris c.1820 Superbly cast, in the Neo-Classical style, the five scrolling foliate candle branches enclosing central sconces issuing from a circular wreath supported by the winged figure of Victory (Nike), wearing diaphanous robes gathered by a sash above a long underskirt splaying out from above her ankles, with beautifully feathered wings flowing behind her as she looks straight ahead. Each figure standing on one foot, the other bent, resting on a plain sphere over a reeded palmette-cast baluster pedestal raised on square plinth. Wonderful colour and patina, pierced for electricity, old inventory label to the underside. We are delighted to have been able to acquire these important candelabra as rarely does one get the opportunity to purchase items by P P Thomire...

Category

1820s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Empire German Ormolu Mntd Mahogany Turtle Feet Jardiniere, Klinkerfuss & Münch
Empire German Ormolu Mntd Mahogany Turtle Feet Jardiniere, Klinkerfuss & Münch

Empire German Ormolu Mntd Mahogany Turtle Feet Jardiniere, Klinkerfuss & Münch

By Johannes Klinkerfuss

Located in New York, NY

A Fantastic and Very Important Empire Period German Ormolu-Mounted Mahogany Jardiniere Mounted on Dore Bronze Turtle Feet, In The Manner Of Johannes Klinkerfuss And Casimir Münch. This is truly a masterpiece jardiniere and was crafted by two of the greatest cabinet-makers of all time Johannes Klinkerfuss and Casimir Münch. This piece has an octagonal form with foliate and swan-decorated dore bronze hand-chiseled and two-tone matted gold gallery above a molded top. The gorgeous mahogany wood glistens beside the dore bronze mounts. Each inch of this piece is crafted of the finest quality. The upper mahogany jardiniere is mounted on eight gorgeously life-like top-quality dore bronze turtles, each hand-chiseled, chased and matted with two-tone gold. Stuttgart, Circa: 1815. Provenance: The Tony Ingrao...

Category

1810s German Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Pair of 19th Century French Empire Gilt Bronze Urns with Sphinx Heads
Pair of 19th Century French Empire Gilt Bronze Urns with Sphinx Heads

Pair of 19th Century French Empire Gilt Bronze Urns with Sphinx Heads

Located in Queens, NY

PAIR of French Empire (19th Cent) gilt bronze urns with triangular shaped bases, finial tops and sphinx ram heads. (PRICED AS PAIR)

Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

French Empire skeleton clock, fire-gilded, engraved bronze With calendar display
French Empire skeleton clock, fire-gilded, engraved bronze With calendar display

French Empire skeleton clock, fire-gilded, engraved bronze With calendar display

Located in Berlin, DE

SKELETON-PENDULUM Directory The Pendulum 1795-1810 Golden Bronze Height 50 cm Width 32 cm Depth 15 cm fire gold-plated bronze Extremely fine quality Directoire/Empire gilt bronze m...

Category

1790s Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Gold Plate

Pair French Gilt Bronze and Champlevé Enamel Trumpet Vases, Late 19th Century
Pair French Gilt Bronze and Champlevé Enamel Trumpet Vases, Late 19th Century

Pair French Gilt Bronze and Champlevé Enamel Trumpet Vases, Late 19th Century

Located in Lisbon, PT

This pair of French trumpet-form vases dates from the late 19th century and blends two luxurious materials: engraved clear glass and richly decorated gilt bronze mounts with champlev...

Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Crystal, Metal

Fine Quality French Empire Patinated and Gilt Bronze Clock
Fine Quality French Empire Patinated and Gilt Bronze Clock

Fine Quality French Empire Patinated and Gilt Bronze Clock

Located in New York, NY

A very fine French empire style patinated and gilt bronze mantel clock with neoclassical scene. Stock number: CC59.

Category

1870s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

French Empire Antique Black Marble and Ormolu Borne Clock by Maniere
French Empire Antique Black Marble and Ormolu Borne Clock by Maniere

French Empire Antique Black Marble and Ormolu Borne Clock by Maniere

By C. Maniere

Located in London, GB

Fine black marble and ormolu mantel clock of borne (antique milestone) form. Superb proportions and Fine ormolu mounts, well finished with matte and burnished fire gilding. The primary mount represents d'Etude, below this a pair of Lions pawing an Anthemion. To each side a Fine mount of crossed winged torches of ever lasting love purporting to represent Anacreon inspired by Love. Fine white enamel dial and gilt bronze hands, signed Maniere a Paris for Charles-Guillaume working at the Rue Christine...

Category

Early 1800s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Marble, Ormolu

Pair Antique French Empire Cararra Marble and Bronze Cassolettes ~ Mantel Urns
Pair Antique French Empire Cararra Marble and Bronze Cassolettes ~ Mantel Urns

Pair Antique French Empire Cararra Marble and Bronze Cassolettes ~ Mantel Urns

Located in Dallas, TX

Pair Antique French Empire Cararra Marble and Bronze Cassolettes ~ Mantel Urns will make a stunning visual accent for any room! Hand-crafted from prized Carrara marble and gold-plat...

Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Carrara Marble, Bronze

Pair of Paris porcelain standing baskets, Empire-period
Pair of Paris porcelain standing baskets, Empire-period

Pair of Paris porcelain standing baskets, Empire-period

Located in Paris, FR

Important pair of openwork baskets in white hard porcelain with gold decoration. The body, of flared circular shape, features a regular openwork design with ogive motifs, enhanced by...

Category

1810s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Porcelain

19th Century French Empire Jardinière With Fine Lyra Bronzes 1820–1825
19th Century French Empire Jardinière With Fine Lyra Bronzes 1820–1825

19th Century French Empire Jardinière With Fine Lyra Bronzes 1820–1825

Located in Epfach, DE

French Empire mahogany jardinière with fine bronzes, c. 1820–1825. Mahogany veneer on softwood with an original metal liner and bronze mounts. Original casters. This is a particularly elegant French Empire jardinière...

Category

1820s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Empire French bronze clock around 1810-20 extremely rare
Empire French bronze clock around 1810-20 extremely rare

Empire French bronze clock around 1810-20 extremely rare

Located in Berlin, DE

French bronze pendulum clock with patinated female figure Attributed to Gérard-Jean Galle, Height: 59 cm. Width: 38 cm. Depth: 19.5 cm. Empire 1804-1815 Eight-da...

Category

Early 1800s Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Pair Antique French Empire Gold Bronze and Marble Candelabra, Circa 1890.
Pair Antique French Empire Gold Bronze and Marble Candelabra, Circa 1890.

Pair Antique French Empire Gold Bronze and Marble Candelabra, Circa 1890.

Located in New Orleans, LA

Pair Magnificent Antique French Empire Gold Bronze & Marble Candelabra, Circa 1890.

Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Marble, Bronze

Cast Iron Gilded Antique Urn or Jardiniere
Cast Iron Gilded Antique Urn or Jardiniere

Cast Iron Gilded Antique Urn or Jardiniere

Located in Wormelow, Herefordshire

A striking antique cast iron urn, planter or jardiniere dating from the late 19th century. Originating from France, this 150-year-old, gilded urn is a showstopping piece with its bold black paint and gold colour contrasts. The design brings a sense of grandeur to any setting, detailed with masks among foliage and scrolls to both the front and the back and a pair of handles with stylised winged lion heads. This French urn makes an impressive display piece, the vibrant colours certain to draw any eye. Additional Information Base 8.66 x 8.66 inch (22 x 22 cm) Blue plinth...

Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Iron

19th c French Empire Carved & Gilt Wood Basketweave Demilune Jardiniere Cachepot
19th c French Empire Carved & Gilt Wood Basketweave Demilune Jardiniere Cachepot

19th c French Empire Carved & Gilt Wood Basketweave Demilune Jardiniere Cachepot

Located in Litchfield, CT

Antique 19th century French Empire carved and gilt wood basketweave demilune jardiniere cachepot. Crescent shape with deep carved wood made to simulate a woven basket. Wonderful old ...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Giltwood

Pair of Empire Style Patinated and Gilded Bronze Candelabra
Pair of Empire Style Patinated and Gilded Bronze Candelabra

Pair of Empire Style Patinated and Gilded Bronze Candelabra

Located in Hudson, NY

This impressive pair of candelabra made in the era of Napoleon III in France circa 1870 are very powerful and impressive. Heavily cast with references to the classical past and profu...

Category

1870s Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Important Pair of 1st Period French Empire Pat. & Dore Bronze 6-Light Candelabra
Important Pair of 1st Period French Empire Pat. & Dore Bronze 6-Light Candelabra

Important Pair of 1st Period French Empire Pat. & Dore Bronze 6-Light Candelabra

Located in New York, NY

A fabulous and important pair of antique French 1st period Empire patinated and two-tone matte and burnished doré bronze six-light candelabras. Each modeled with figures of Goddess D...

Category

Early 1800s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

19th Century Atrium Form Dutch Fruitwood Gilt Metal Mantel Clock
19th Century Atrium Form Dutch Fruitwood Gilt Metal Mantel Clock

19th Century Atrium Form Dutch Fruitwood Gilt Metal Mantel Clock

Located in Bridgeport, CT

The top tier with the clock works decorated with a pair of gilt putti above a gilt garland, and outer enamel dial. The corners with gilt herons and leaves. ...

Category

19th Century Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Alabaster, Brass

Large Sewing Box Lacquer Work with Pastoral Scenes, Early 19th Century
Large Sewing Box Lacquer Work with Pastoral Scenes, Early 19th Century

Large Sewing Box Lacquer Work with Pastoral Scenes, Early 19th Century

Located in Knivsta, SE

A large and intricately decorated Empire lacquer work sewing box. Early 19th century Europe. The box is decorated with pastoral scenes and an intricate pattern on the edges. The ins...

Category

Early 19th Century European Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Lacquer, Beech

French Empire Patinated & Gilt Metal Figural Clock
French Empire Patinated & Gilt Metal Figural Clock

French Empire Patinated & Gilt Metal Figural Clock

Located in Astoria, NY

French Empire Patinated and Gilt Metal Figural Clock, circa 1840, surmounted by a seated female musician holding a tambourine, white enamel dial, strike on bell, on a gothic strapwor...

Category

1840s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Marble, Metal, Enamel

French Empire Allegorical Clock Depicting "Venus Guided by Love" by Lesieur
French Empire Allegorical Clock Depicting "Venus Guided by Love" by Lesieur

French Empire Allegorical Clock Depicting "Venus Guided by Love" by Lesieur

By Pierre Lesieur

Located in Vancouver, British Columbia

An important and rare French Empire gilt bronze mantel clock depicting "Venus Guided by Love" featuring a case by the noted bronzier Lesieur. The figures and clock plinth sit on a rectangular green marble base topped with a gilt bronze plinth, raised upon four flattened toupie feet. The round enamel dial, signed “Lesieur à Paris”, indicates the Roman numeral hours and minute graduations. It is housed in a finely chased bronze altar whose pediment is decorated with egg and dart friezes, and be-ribboned torches on either side the façade is adorned with applied stylized butterfly and lyre motifs. The sides feature be-ribboned flower wreaths, and the plinth a leaf frieze. Two fine gilt bronze figures depict a winged and semi-nude cupid who is pointing to the time, while addressing Venus who is clothed in antique robes...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Empire Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock by Michel-François Piolaine
Empire Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock by Michel-François Piolaine

Empire Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock by Michel-François Piolaine

By Michel-François Piolaine

Located in London, GB

This large and impressive gilt bronze mantel clock is by the French Michel-François Piolaine. The clock body is raised by an architecturally formed, plinth-shaped base, set to the fr...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Ormolu, Bronze

French Empire Gilt Bronze Figural Clock, Classical Muse with Flower Basket
French Empire Gilt Bronze Figural Clock, Classical Muse with Flower Basket

French Empire Gilt Bronze Figural Clock, Classical Muse with Flower Basket

Located in Astoria, NY

French Empire Gilt Bronze Figural Clock, circa 1830, the classical muse upholding a basket of flowers beside a red-painted globular clock with white enamel dial, the movement strike ...

Category

1830s French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze, Enamel

Antique Empire Gold Gilt Patinated Bronze Ormolu Mantel Clock
Antique Empire Gold Gilt Patinated Bronze Ormolu Mantel Clock

Antique Empire Gold Gilt Patinated Bronze Ormolu Mantel Clock

Located in London, GB

Antique Empire Gold Gilt Patinated Bronze Ormolu Mantel Clock French, c. 1810 Height 48cm, width 31cm, depth 20cm A superb example of early 19th-century French decorative arts, thi...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze, Enamel

Empire decorative objects for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Empire decorative objects for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage decorative objects created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include decorative objects, serveware, ceramics, silver and glass, lighting and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with metal, bronze and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Empire decorative objects made in a specific country, there are Europe, France, and Italy pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original decorative objects, popular names associated with this style include Europa Antiques, Gherardo Degli Albizzi, Franco Salimbeni, and Alexandre Vossion. 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 decorative objects differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $170 and tops out at $148,649 while the average work can sell for $4,772.