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Napoleon III Sterling Silver

NAPOLEON III STYLE

Under Napoleon III’s rule, Paris underwent a great rebuilding overseen by Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann, which created grand avenues and lavish landmarks like the Paris Opera. Antique Napoleon III–style furniture was flamboyant and eclectic. It was also known as Second Empire style since it followed and referenced the Empire style of his uncle Napoleon I.

Developing from 1852–70, Napoleon III furniture was plush and ornate, matching the fashion for masked balls and socializing in salons. It borrowed freely from earlier French styles including Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI as well as aesthetics from around the world, from antiquity to Asian art. As writer Gustave Claudin remarked in 1867, the country’s architects worked in “a style which one would be tempted to call neo-Greco-Gothico-Pompadour-Pompeian.”

Napoleon III chairs were completely covered with velvet and lined with tassels; pouf footstools invited people to put up their feet. Sofas were upholstered with tapestries, and beds were adorned with gilt bronze and theatrical canopies. The addition of conservatories to homes led to new indoor-outdoor furniture, while the spirit of hygiene promoted by Baron Haussmann inspired bright, floral motifs.

Although the most ostentatious designs were for the elite, as seen in the Napoleon III apartments preserved in the Louvre, where red velvet, gilding and chandeliers create a cacophony of luxury, these trends influenced homes across classes as manufacturing made design increasingly accessible. Papier-mâché furniture allowed for elaborate shapes that would have been difficult to carve in wood. The malleable material was painted with chinoiserie patterns and decorative designs. It was mass-produced by factories such as Jennens and Bettridge with varnishing and mother-of-pearl inlays creating an effect reminiscent of Asian lacquer. (Surfaces that had been “japanned” — a specialty of Jennens and Bettridge — were intended to resemble lacquer work that was created in East Asia.)

Find a collection of antique Napoleon III decorative objects, tables, seating and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Style: Napoleon III
Period: 19th Century
Maison Boudet - Important Pair Of XIXth Vermeil Salerons
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Exceptional pair of vermeil salerons represented by a newt blowing in a conch, in the middle of two large shells placed on an oval base with leafy outlines. Here the marine theme is...
Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Goldsmith: j.b. Francois - important 19th century solid silver planter
By Francois-Jacques Boeri
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Oblong silver planter, resting on four claw feet in foliate crosier. The body is decorated with repoussé with a frieze of grooves. On the long sides is a rocaille cartouche surmounte...
Category

1880s French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Puiforcat - Vegetable Dish And Its Display Stand In Solid Silver, Late 19th
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
VEGETABLE DISH covered on its rectangular solid silver presentation dish, the pedestal vegetable dish, curved sides, is flanked by two side handles, the ogee lid is surmounted by a l...
Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Silver

Boin Taburet – Ewer In Engraved Crystal And Solid Silver 19th Century
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Crystal and silver ewer. The crystal is encased in a solid silver setting, the base rests on four scrolled feet and is chiseled with a rich decoration of waves and foliage, as well a...
Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Goldsmith Odiot - Oval Tray Xix Circa 1860/1880
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Oval tray in silver-plated metal, with an animated shape, interior chiseled with a radiant decoration surrounding a cartouche, stylized arabesques, and flanked by two side handles. T...
Category

1880s French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

J. Piault – large 19th century solid silver serving tray
By Jules Piault 1
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Large rectangular solid silver tray with two handles, with rich engraved and chiseled decoration on an amati background, of Renaissance inspiration, of chimeras, flowered scrolls, le...
Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Odiot - Pair Of Double Salt Cellars And Two Individual 19th Century Silver
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Pair of double salt cellars in solid silver, removable vermeil bowl interior, model with large gadroons on an amati background, each mounted on four acanthus leaf feet. Connected by ...
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Late 19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Goldsmith Merite 12 Solid Silver And Mother-Of-Pearl Fish Cutlery 19th Century
By Merite
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Set of 12 fish cutlery in solid silver and mother-of-pearl handle with very good quality silver tip. The fork and the blade of the knife are delicately carved with leafy arabesques. ...
Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Lapparra - 327pc. Napoleon III, 950 Sterling Silver Flatware Set + Cabinet
Located in Wilmington, DE
Direct from a Private Mansion Near Paris, A Magnificent 327 piece (Service for 18) Sterling Silver Flatware Set by Henri Lapparra; «Silversmith to the French Court". The rich history of French silversmithing boasts many illustrious names, but few have left as indelible a mark as the renowned Lapparra family. For over a thousand years, this lineage of skilled artisans has crafted exquisite silverware that transcends mere utility, evolving into a symbol of luxury, artistry, and French cultural heritage. The story of the Lapparra family's silversmithing prowess begins in the early 10th century. By the 12th century, the Lapparra name had become synonymous with craftsmanship, and their workshops produced intricate chalices, candlesticks, and reliquaries for churches across France. The 19th century witnessed the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte and the consolidation of his empire. The Lapparra silversmiths adapted to the imperial tastes, crafting magnificent pieces that showcased the grandeur of the First French Empire, like this amazing 327-piece flatware set. In addition, elaborate tea and coffee sets, dinnerware, and ornate presentation pieces were created for the imperial court, earning the family the coveted title of "Imperial Silversmiths." The Lapparra family's creations graced the tables of Napoleon's lavish banquets and adorned the Palais des Tuileries. Their innovative techniques, set new standards in silversmithing. Even after Napoleon's fall, the Lapparra legacy endured, as they continued to cater to the elite of Europe, from Russian tsars to British nobility. The Lapparra family's enduring legacy extends far beyond their magnificent silverware. Their contributions to the world of silversmithing have left an indelible mark on French culture and the global art community. Their ability to evolve with the times while preserving their commitment to quality and craftsmanship has made them a symbol of artistic excellence. The Lapparra name is not only associated with opulence and luxury but also with innovation and artistic expression. Their influence can be seen in the work of countless contemporary silversmiths who draw inspiration from their rich history. The Lapparra family's legacy continues into the 21st century, as the family's artisans continue to produce exquisite silverware, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities. With a renewed focus on custom creations and limited-edition series, they cater to collectors, museums, and connoisseurs worldwide. This set is in extremely good condition and comes with a stunning 5-drawer, marble top storage...
Category

1890s French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Odiot & Faberge - 9pc. French 950 Sterling Silver Tea Set + 6 Faberge Cups
Located in Wilmington, DE
Direct from a Private Mansion in Paris, a Magnificent 9pc. Antique French 950 Sterling Silver Tea Set by the World's Premier French Silversmith Jean-Baptiste Odiot, plus 6 Faberge Im...
Category

1890s French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

An antique French silver tea or coffee cup and saucer circa 1860
Located in Central England, GB
This most stylish heavy French solid silver tea or coffee cup and matching saucer are boldly marked in several places with the French high grade Minerva silver mark for .950 grade si...
Category

Mid-19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Silver

19th century French Silver and Mother-of-pearl Cheese Knives Box, 1850s
Located in LEGNY, FR
Magnificent box Napoleon III in lacquered wood and gold with hors d'oeuvres or cheese in silver and mother-of-pearl handle with monogram. Hallmark of the master goldsmith Touron in P...
Category

1850s French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Silver

French Original Cased Pair Silver Baptismal Oil Containers
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
A very fine and scarce French pair silver Baptismal oil containers in its original leather fitted travelling case dating from 1850. The two cylindrical shaped oil containers are conjoined and both have tight fitting covers mounted with crosses. The oil containers have engraved initials OC and SC probably denoting oil and incense which would have been used in the baptismal ceremony. The identical lids too are similarly marked to ensure that these are not mixed up. The containers appear to have a slightly gilded finish to the interior and the oil containers are engraved to the bases and date 1850. They come in their original leather case with a small brass hook...
Category

1850s French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Silver

19th Century Pair of Austro-Hungarian Vases in Silver Gilt with Gemstones
Located in Paris, FR
Pair of small Etruscan-shaped vases. Austro-Hungarian craftsmanship from the 19th century in silver-gilt and cabochons. They are carved with fluting and vegetal patterns and adorned ...
Category

19th Century European Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Silver

Three-Piece German Silver & etched crystal garniture
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A 19th century German parcel gilt silver and crystal 3-piece garniture set comprising a centerpiece and pair of compotes, each cast with four putti and supporting etched crystal bowl...
Category

Late 19th Century German Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Gold Plate, Silver

Antique French .950 Silver 5-Piece Carving Service with Gigot in Box
Located in Pembroke, MA
A finely-chased French .950 fine silver five-piece carving service comprising a caving knife, a carving fork (with adjustable resting stand for raising it off of the table), a serving fork with bone tines, a serving spoon with bone bowl, and a handle for holding a leg of lamb ("manche a gigot...
Category

19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

Materials

Silver

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Boin Taburet - 322pc Flatware Set + 15pc Platter Set, 950 Sterling & Vermeil
Located in Wilmington, DE
Direct from a Private Mansion in St. Tropez, a Stunning 19th Century 950 Sterling Silver and Vermeil Table Service by Premier French Silversmith "Boin Taburet", Consisting of a 322pc Flatware Set Plus a 15pc. Serving Platter Set...
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Charming Silver-Gilt Centerpiece by Boin-Taburet, France, Circa 1880
Located in PARIS, FR
Elegant centerpiece in finely chiseled vermeil. Composed of a Baccarat cut-crystal cup from which emerge four sinuous light-arms. The whole rests on a scalloped mirrored tray adorned with foliage, with a molded contour of wrapped rushes and ending with four openwork feet. The two French goldsmiths George Boin and his son-in-law Emile Taburet created circa 1875 in Paris the company Boin-Taburet. They made many silver pieces inspired by the beautiful services of the eighteenth century. At the Paris Universal Exhibition of 1878, Georges Boin presented a “service de toilette” inspired by the work of François-Thomas Germain (1726-1791), and then at the Universal Exhibition of 1889, several epergnes, including one of them executed after drawings by the famous artist Juste-Aurèle Meissonier (1695-1750), as well as tea sets of Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. Boin-Taburet firm also exhibited a tureen and platter after Pierre Germain...
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19th century Sterling silver fruit bowl
Located in Chelmsford, GB
A superb sterling silver fruit bowl , It is a very decorative piece of silver with swag and ribbon decoration that really does catch the eye. The thick gauge of silver used gives it...
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Shiebler Silver Match Safe in Gold Vermeil
Located in New York, NY
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Victorian Silver Candle Snuffer with Tray 19th Century English
Located in North Miami, FL
This 2 part candle snuffer is from the late 19th century Victorian. The snuffer shears are sterling silver except for the part that puts out the flame. It has many hallmarks. The tra...
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Early 19th Century Sterling Silver Ladle
Located in High Point, NC
Early 19th century sterling silver large ladle with wonderful English hallmark that reads Richard Crossley, London, 1812. Engraved with a letter J on the handle.
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Sterling Silver

Early 19th Century Sterling Silver Ladle
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H 2.75 in W 12 in D 3.25 in
Antique 19th Century Indian Solid Silver Swami Goblet, Madras c.1880
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Antique late-19th Century Indian Colonial solid silver repousse goblet, the top band is beautifully chased and repousse' decorated depicting Hindu god...
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19th Century Silver and Crystal Mustard Cellar
Located in Casteren, Noord-Brabant
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19th Century Silver and Crystal Mustard Cellar
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H 6.3 in W 4.73 in D 2.76 in
Vintage Silver Serving Cutlery - England Late 19th Century
Located in Roma, IT
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Late 19th Century British Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

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Previously Available Items
Large Silver Stag Bowl, Napoleon III Period
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
"Large silver stag bowl, Napoleon III period" Silver bowl, German work, circa 1880-1890, Napoleon III period.
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19th Century German Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

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Antique Solid Silver Jardinere / Planter Box with Insert by Andre Aucoc
Located in San Diego, CA
Large antique solid silver Napoleon III era jardinere / table top planter by Andre Aucoc, circa late 1800s. This gorgeous piece with a pierced galler...
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Late 19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

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Pair of 19th Century Silver Salt Cellars with Crystal Liners Marked Delheid
By Delheid Freres
Located in Casteren, Noord-Brabant
Beautiful set of two solid silver salt cellars by the Belgian maker Deheid Frères. The inside is gold plated and fitted with crystal liners. The gilding was applied to prevent salt-o...
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1880s Belgian Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

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Set of Six 19th Century Silver Oyster Forks
Located in Casteren, Noord-Brabant
Beautiful set of six antique silver oyster forks. The forks have thick handles, making them easy to handle. The have elegant ornamented finish. There are s...
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1880s French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

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Silver

Set of Six 19th Century Silver Oyster Forks
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H 5.91 in W 0.79 in D 0.79 in
Pair of French Silver Sauceboats by A. Risler & Carre, Paris, Circa 1880
Located in New York, NY
A pair of French Silver Sauceboats by A. Risler & Carre, Paris, Circa 1880 A magnificent quality pair of silver sauceboats, with french silver hallmarks, and each signed A. Risler &...
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19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

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Pair of French Silver Sauceboats, Possibly Tetard Freres Paris, Circa 1880
Located in New York, NY
A pair of French silver Sauceboats, Possibly Tetard Freres Paris, Circa 1880 A magnificent quality pair of silver sauceboats / gravy dishes. With french silver hallmarks, no makers mark but the quality led us to believe they are possibly by Tetard Freres. The pair weighs 91 ounces. Each measures 4" high x 13" wide x 7" deep. Excellent condition, no damages noted. Ready for use. Edmond Tétard took over the business of the renowned master silversmith Émile Hugo...
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Pair of French Silver Sauceboats by Gustave Keller, Paris, circa 1880
Located in New York, NY
A Pair of French Silver Sauceboats by Gustave Keller, Paris, Circa 1880 A magnificent quality pair of silver sauceboats, with original liners. With french silver hallmarks, and ea...
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19th Century French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

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French Napoléon III 1850s Silver Epergne with Putto and Mythical Creatures
Located in Atlanta, GA
A French Napoléon III period silver epergne from the mid 19th century, with putto and mythical creatures. Created in France at the beginning of Emperor Napoléon III's reign, this epergne features a central silver column adorned with a torch-bearing putto and etched glass bowls...
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Christofle Napoleon III Silverware Set of Full 45 Pieces, 19th Century, France
Located in Paris, FR
Rare and extremely elegant French Napoleon III style by the famous Silver Creator Christofle the official provider of table service for King Louis Philippe and the entire Nobles House of Orléans. In 1850, Napoléon Bonaparte commissioned Christofle to produce his table service for the Palais de l'Elysée. Christofle's relationship with Bonaparte continued after the later became known as Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. Christofle's official titles of 'Goldsmith to the King' and the 'Emperor's Provider' having a new international expansion as official Silverware provider for the Kaiser of Germany, the royal households of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the Ottoman Empire, and the Tsar of Russia. 0 Inside three black original elegant wood presentation boxes with golden locks and handles and velvet, you will find a very elegant 19th century French set signed Christofle, known worldwide for its quality and elegance, using a higher standard of silver purity. This silver plated silverware set...
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Fanniere Freres, a French Two Color Gilt-Bronze Vase, Paris, 1860
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Fanniere Freres, a French two color gilt bronze vase, Paris, 1860 Exceptional quality orientalist style pierced bronze vase, molded with palms throu...
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Bronze

Very Rare Paiva Strawberry Serving Set for 12 Guests French Sterling Silver 1864
Located in Paris, FR
This beautiful strawberry serving set is composed of one large serving large flat hand, one sugar spoon, 12 forks with 12 assorted spoons, on the top of each piece the pattern shows ...
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1860s French Antique Napoleon III Sterling Silver

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Oil and Vinegar in Green Opaline and Enameled Gold in Its Silver Support
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Oil and vinegar in green opaline and enameled gold in its silver support, 19th century, Napoléon III period Measures: H 26cm, L 24cm, P 8cm.
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Napoleon Iii sterling silver for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Napoleon III sterling silver 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 sterling silver created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include serveware, ceramics, silver and glass, decorative objects, more furniture and collectibles and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with metal, silver and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Napoleon III sterling silver made in a specific country, there are Europe, Italy, and France pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original sterling silver, popular names associated with this style include Franco Salimbeni, Giorgio Salimbeni, A. Aucoc, and Lapparra Orfèvre Argentier. 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 sterling silver differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $431 and tops out at $49,124 while the average work can sell for $3,814.

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