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Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

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
Baccarat Harcourt 48 Piece Set, Water, Red Wine, White Wine, Champagne Glasses
Baccarat Harcourt 48 Piece Set, Water, Red Wine, White Wine, Champagne Glasses

Baccarat Harcourt 48 Piece Set, Water, Red Wine, White Wine, Champagne Glasses

By Baccarat

Located in New York, NY

Estate Baccarat Harcourt 48 piece set, 12 water, 12 red wine, 12 white wine, 12 champagne coupe glasses France, 20th Century Each piece has been examined and is in excellent conditio...

Category

20th Century French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal

Baccarat Malmaison Set of 12 Hand-Crafted Crystal Wine Glasses, 1910
Baccarat Malmaison Set of 12 Hand-Crafted Crystal Wine Glasses, 1910

Baccarat Malmaison Set of 12 Hand-Crafted Crystal Wine Glasses, 1910

By Baccarat

Located in New York, NY

Fine estate Baccarat Malmaison set of twelve wine glasses 20th Century Named after the famed Chateau de Malmaison, Empress Josephine's favorite residence, this is one of Baccarat's ...

Category

20th Century French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal

19th-Century Empire French Solid Silver Coffee Pot or Ewer
19th-Century Empire French Solid Silver Coffee Pot or Ewer

19th-Century Empire French Solid Silver Coffee Pot or Ewer

Located in LA CIOTAT, FR

This refined French Empire period coffee pot, or ewer, dates from the early years of the 19th-century and is crafted in solid silver. The elegant silhouette, balanced proportions and...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Silver, Sterling Silver

English Silver Plate Biscuit Box or Tea Caddy
English Silver Plate Biscuit Box or Tea Caddy

English Silver Plate Biscuit Box or Tea Caddy

Located in New York, NY

An English sterling silver plate covered biscuit box or tea caddy with hinged finial lid top, attached claw footed gallery tray, and exterior repou...

Category

20th Century English Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Silver Plate

19th C. Kirk & Son "Repoussé" 117-Piece Sterling Silver Flat Service, 111.8 Oz
19th C. Kirk & Son "Repoussé" 117-Piece Sterling Silver Flat Service, 111.8 Oz

19th C. Kirk & Son "Repoussé" 117-Piece Sterling Silver Flat Service, 111.8 Oz

By Kirk & Son

Located in Germantown, MD

A S. Kirk & Son, Sterling Silver Repousse set of flatware. 117 gorgeous pieces. Hand chased and hand decorated by prominent American silversmith Samuel Kirk who introduced the Repou...

Category

19th Century American Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Sterling Silver

Mid-19th Century White Opaline Bowl with Brass Handle
Mid-19th Century White Opaline Bowl with Brass Handle

Mid-19th Century White Opaline Bowl with Brass Handle

Located in Haddonfield, NJ

As found in Denmark, we see this charming bowl with a etched brass handle used as a decorative piece as well as functional. This could be displayed on a coffee table as well used as ...

Category

Mid-19th Century Danish Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Brass

Early 20th Century Large Russian Imperial Brass Samovar Set
Early 20th Century Large Russian Imperial Brass Samovar Set

Early 20th Century Large Russian Imperial Brass Samovar Set

Located in Germantown, MD

A gorgeous, early 20th century large Russian imperial brass samovar set. Tray and bowl included. Measures 16" in width, 16" in depth and stands 22.5" tall.

Category

Early 20th Century Russian Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Brass

Empire Period Wash Basin and Jug Set by Porcelaine de Paris
Empire Period Wash Basin and Jug Set by Porcelaine de Paris

Empire Period Wash Basin and Jug Set by Porcelaine de Paris

By Porcelaine de Paris

Located in LA CIOTAT, FR

A superb early 19th century Empire period wash basin (with saucer) and tall pitcher, beautifully crafted from Old Paris Porcelain and featuring a very striking hand-painted polychrom...

Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain, Paint

Fine Estate Baccarat Crystal Empire Style Jonzac Decanter
Fine Estate Baccarat Crystal Empire Style Jonzac Decanter

Fine Estate Baccarat Crystal Empire Style Jonzac Decanter

By Baccarat

Located in New York, NY

Fine estate Baccarat decanter in the rare Jonzac pattern which pairs beautifully with Empire and Harcourt patterns- the stopper is identical to Harcourt an...

Category

20th Century French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal

Large Estate Christofle Empire Style Four Piece Caviar Serving Set
Large Estate Christofle Empire Style Four Piece Caviar Serving Set

Large Estate Christofle Empire Style Four Piece Caviar Serving Set

By Christofle

Located in New York, NY

Fine large and impressive estate Christofle Empire style caviar serving set Pattern: 4224590 Classic French elegance, this superb scarce four piece caviar set epitomizes luxury and refinement. Composed of an outer two handled presentation dish for ice, a crystal bowl for caviar, a cross bar stand for the caviar bowl and a lid. The handles with attractive stylized sea shell motifs, ideal for serving caviar. This fine Christofle caviar...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal, Silver Plate

Antique Baccarat Crystal Empire Armorial Crest 34 Piece Stemware Service for 8
Antique Baccarat Crystal Empire Armorial Crest 34 Piece Stemware Service for 8

Antique Baccarat Crystal Empire Armorial Crest 34 Piece Stemware Service for 8

By Baccarat

Located in New York, NY

Historically significant Baccarat Empire Simson Armorial Crest stemware service for 8 - champagne, wine, water and liqueur glasses and two superb wine decanters, each piece bearing the Simson crest 19th Century The Armorial crest is almost certainly that of Sampson Simson (1780-1857), a Jewish American philanthropist most notably remembered as the Father of Mount Sinai Hospital. Simson was born in Danbury, CT and expressed an early interest in law, attending Columbia University where he studied under Aaron Burr. He was admitted to the bar in 1802 and became one of the first Jewish lawyers in New York City. He retired several years later to devote himself to charitable work. In 1852, nine men, including Sampson Simpson, joined together to establish the Jew's Hospital in New York which later became Mount Sinai Hospital. Simson served as the first president of the hospital's Board of Directors, personally covering many of the expenses and donating the land upon which the hospital was originally built on West 28th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues. Baccarat introduced their iconic Harcourt pattern in 1841 and this service is from approximately the same time period, circa 1850. The Baccarat Empire pattern elevates the Harcourt design model with fine gilded decoration identical at the foot and rim to the Simson service. Armorial crests were executed by special commission which included the 1828 Louis de Bourbon Ewer, the Duke of Aosta service, Service de L'Elysee, Countess of Paris Service and those of other prominent individuals. The service includes: Wine decanter with handle: 10.5 inches high, 5.5 inches diameter Wine Decanter: 10.38 inches high, 5 inches diameter 8 champagne coupes: 5 inches high, 4 inches diameter 8 wine glasses: 5 inches high, 2.63 inches diameter 8 water glasses: 6.63 inches high, 3.57 inches diameter 8 liqueur glasses: 4.13 inches high, 2.13 inches diameter Condition: Very Good. very light age appropriate surface wear Baccarat registered its trademark in 1860 at which time a paper label began to be attached to pieces, very few of these labels have survived. Prior to this period, Baccarat pieces were unsigned, with the exception of some early paperweights bearing the letter B. Early Baccarat is identified by quality, pattern and references. References: Christie's, Auction 2814, January 23, 2014 for a silver brandy warmer by Myer Myers with an identical crest, the lot essay identifying the crest as that of Sampson Simson _ we are grateful to Jill Waddell, Christie's VP, Senior Specialist, Silver Department for her assistance with identifying the Simson crest. A Baccarat wine decanter...

Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal

19th Century Empire Old Paris porcelain tea and coffee set
19th Century Empire Old Paris porcelain tea and coffee set

19th Century Empire Old Paris porcelain tea and coffee set

Located in Delft, NL

19th Century Empire Old Paris porcelain tea and coffee set An early 19th Century Old Paris porcelain coffee, tea set with green painted French country scenes and gold paint. The gol...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Porcelaine de Paris, Manufacture Neppel - Set of 9 handpainted flower plates
Porcelaine de Paris, Manufacture Neppel - Set of 9 handpainted flower plates

Porcelaine de Paris, Manufacture Neppel - Set of 9 handpainted flower plates

By Porcelaine de Paris

Located in DELFT, NL

A rare and exceptionally charming set of nine hand-painted Paris porcelain plates, each featuring a distinct botanical motif. The plates are individually identified with the flower’s...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

119-Piece Silver Plated Flatware for 12 Persons by SFAM Model Sans-Gêne Empire
119-Piece Silver Plated Flatware for 12 Persons by SFAM Model Sans-Gêne Empire

119-Piece Silver Plated Flatware for 12 Persons by SFAM Model Sans-Gêne Empire

Located in Casteren, Noord-Brabant

Beautiful set of silver plated tableware from the French brand SFAM (Société Française d'Alliage de Métaux). The cutlery is beautifully decorated in Empire style. SFAM ceased to exis...

Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Silver Plate

Richard Ginori Pittoria Italy "Pincio Green" 103 Piece Dinner Set, Circa 1980
Richard Ginori Pittoria Italy "Pincio Green" 103 Piece Dinner Set, Circa 1980

Richard Ginori Pittoria Italy "Pincio Green" 103 Piece Dinner Set, Circa 1980

By Richard Ginori

Located in CH

Richard Ginori “Pincio Green” Dinner Set This exquisite Pincio Green dinner set by Richard Ginori is distinguished by an imperial green band enriched with gold flowers and leaves, bordered by a green ribbon and a delicate pattern of small gold arches, all set against a pristine white porcelain background. Each piece in the set bears the Richard Ginori green...

Category

1980s Italian Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Estate Baccarat Empire Harcourt Pitcher
Estate Baccarat Empire Harcourt Pitcher

Estate Baccarat Empire Harcourt Pitcher

By Cristalleries De Baccarat

Located in New York, NY

Fine Baccarat Empire Harcourt cocktail/water pitcher. The Empire Harcourt pattern is one of Baccarat's most sought after designs. A classic since 1841, it has graced the tables of n...

Category

20th Century French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal

Picture Frame Silver rectangular frame oval photo Enamel 925 silver Salimbeni
Picture Frame Silver rectangular frame oval photo Enamel 925 silver Salimbeni

Picture Frame Silver rectangular frame oval photo Enamel 925 silver Salimbeni

By Franco Salimbeni, Salimbeni

Located in Firenze, FI

Rectangular frame for oval photo in gold-plated 925/1000 sterling silver with translucent fired enamel on a guilloché pattern with Fabergé Russian Empire style ornaments from the lat...

Category

1960s Italian Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Gold Plate, Sterling Silver, Enamel

Att. Moser, Glassware Service (43 pieces), 1950s
Att. Moser, Glassware Service (43 pieces), 1950s

Att. Moser, Glassware Service (43 pieces), 1950s

By Saint Louis, Moser

Located in PARIS, FR

Superb glassware service composed of 43 pieces featuring glass cutting techniques in the style of Moser’s “Splendid” model, with gold thistle decorations along the rim reminiscent of...

Category

1950s Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Glass

12 Limoges Raised Gilt Enameled Napoleonic Plates, circa 1900
12 Limoges Raised Gilt Enameled Napoleonic Plates, circa 1900

12 Limoges Raised Gilt Enameled Napoleonic Plates, circa 1900

By Charles Ahrenfeldt

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

12 Limoges raised gilt enameled Napoleonic plates, circa 1900, each one decorated with gilt laurel surround, filled with golden bees, the center with Napoleonic crest of laurel wreath and monogrammed 'N'. The porcelain is made by Charles Ahrenfeldt Limoges...

Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Pair of Empire Period Porcelain Campana Vases, Parisian, circa 1815
Pair of Empire Period Porcelain Campana Vases, Parisian, circa 1815

Pair of Empire Period Porcelain Campana Vases, Parisian, circa 1815

Located in Atlanta, GA

A fine pair of Paris porcelain vases, designed in campana form with the front featuring circular vignettes with landscape scenes, on the reverse are framed musical trophies created t...

Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Porcelaine de Paris - Coffee cup and saucer 'Litron', early 19th century
Porcelaine de Paris - Coffee cup and saucer 'Litron', early 19th century

Porcelaine de Paris - Coffee cup and saucer 'Litron', early 19th century

By Porcelaine de Paris

Located in DELFT, NL

Elegant cup and saucer, of the model 'Litron' with elaborate gilt decoration of vine leafs Good condition;  Tiny fleebites to the rims and little loss of gold. Unmarked, but most l...

Category

Early 19th Century Austrian Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Baccarat Harcourt 1841 Champagne Flutes Set of Six, Crystal, France
Baccarat Harcourt 1841 Champagne Flutes Set of Six, Crystal, France

Baccarat Harcourt 1841 Champagne Flutes Set of Six, Crystal, France

By Baccarat

Located in Albano Laziale, Rome/Lazio

A wonderful vintage set of six Harcourt 1841 white wine glasses by Baccarat, France. Marked Baccarat, France in the bottom. No chipping or damage. Pure, powerful and elegant at the ...

Category

Late 20th Century French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal

White and Gilt Neoclassical Cupid Arrow Cup & Saucer
White and Gilt Neoclassical Cupid Arrow Cup & Saucer

White and Gilt Neoclassical Cupid Arrow Cup & Saucer

Located in New York, NY

White and gilt neoclassical cupid arrow cup & saucer. Empire period designed white and gilt porcelain Valentine cupid's arrows and floral sprays. Under-glaze marks for Vienna. ...

Category

Early 19th Century Austrian Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Exceptional Russian Silver Goblet with Cloisonné Enamel
Exceptional Russian Silver Goblet with Cloisonné Enamel

Exceptional Russian Silver Goblet with Cloisonné Enamel

Located in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Exceptional Russian Silver Goblet with Cloisonné Enamel – 1848 Exceptional Russian silver goblet (Goblet), crafted in solid silver and fine ename...

Category

1840s Russian Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Silver, Enamel

Dagoty Manufacture of Empress Joséphine Wife of Napoleon 1st Swan Cup
Dagoty Manufacture of Empress Joséphine Wife of Napoleon 1st Swan Cup

Dagoty Manufacture of Empress Joséphine Wife of Napoleon 1st Swan Cup

By Dagoty

Located in Paris, FR

This very rare set of 12 delicate cups swan shape with their saucers is signed by Dagoty, one of the favorite manufacturers of Empress Joséphine's first Napoleon wife well known for ...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Empire style Coffee Set Porcelain Darte Frères
Empire style Coffee Set Porcelain Darte Frères

Empire style Coffee Set Porcelain Darte Frères

By Darte Frères

Located in Paris, FR

Very rare coffee set composed of 5 pièces : 4 cups with their saucer, and 1 sugar bowl. Whole set in porcelain with stripes patterns made of gold. Handles are painted in red, with an Egyptian-style gilt figure on it. Inner part half gilt. Work from the early 19th century period, in the style of Empire or made during it. Signed with red letters stamped "DARTE / FRERES / A PARIS" on the saucer. Darte Frères was a Parisian porcelain...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

China Dinner Service for 6 by Richard Ginori Black Onice Rim, Gold Trim & Verge
China Dinner Service for 6 by Richard Ginori Black Onice Rim, Gold Trim & Verge

China Dinner Service for 6 by Richard Ginori Black Onice Rim, Gold Trim & Verge

By Richard Ginori

Located in Roma, IT

A Tableware set in very fine porcelain made in Italy between the 60s and 70s by the Doccia factory "Richard Ginori". Richard Ginori is an historic Italian ceramic's factory founded in Tuscany, in Sesto Fiorentino, near Florence, of which Gio Ponti was creative director for 10 years. This dinnerware is part of a Manufacture collection inspired by the elegant lines of the Empire style and which was out of stock for a long time. Now, the new ownership of the brand, recently purchased by the Gucci Group, has included the Contessa collection back in the range but without the subtle tone-on-tone trim that embellished the gold encrusted rim. We could say that this vintage dinner service...

Category

1980s Italian Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Wonderful French Empire Neoclassical Cut Crystal Bronze Ormolu Urn Centerpiece
Wonderful French Empire Neoclassical Cut Crystal Bronze Ormolu Urn Centerpiece

Wonderful French Empire Neoclassical Cut Crystal Bronze Ormolu Urn Centerpiece

Located in Roslyn, NY

A wonderful French Empire / neoclassical cut crystal and bronze ormolu mounted urn with lady figure handles centerpiece.  

Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal, Bronze, Ormolu

Music Box handpainted miniature with Swiss Mechanism by Maison Reuge Salimbeni
Music Box handpainted miniature with Swiss Mechanism by Maison Reuge Salimbeni

Music Box handpainted miniature with Swiss Mechanism by Maison Reuge Salimbeni

By Salimbeni, Franco Salimbeni

Located in Firenze, FI

Exquisite Reuge S.A. Musical Table Box Description:Discover a stunning large rectangular table box featuring elegantly concave corners, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of th...

Category

1970s Italian Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Sterling Silver, Enamel, Gold Plate

French Porcelain Compote Basket
French Porcelain Compote Basket

French Porcelain Compote Basket

Located in New York, NY

A beautiful French oval white and gold pierced Paris Porcelain compote basket tazza bowl in the Empire style, circa late 19th century, France...

Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Table Box miniature fire-enameled Aleksej Nikolaevic Romanov Salimbeni.
Table Box miniature fire-enameled Aleksej Nikolaevic Romanov Salimbeni.

Table Box miniature fire-enameled Aleksej Nikolaevic Romanov Salimbeni.

By Salimbeni, Franco Salimbeni

Located in Firenze, FI

Rectangular table box with inward corners in gold-plated 925/1000 sterling silver with translucent enamel fired on guilloche and a fine round miniature in the centre, diameter cm. 4....

Category

1970s Italian Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Gold, Gold Plate, Sterling Silver, Enamel

Piatto in Porcellana di Meissen Dipinta a Mano Anni 60
Piatto in Porcellana di Meissen Dipinta a Mano Anni 60

Piatto in Porcellana di Meissen Dipinta a Mano Anni 60

By Meissen Porcelain

Located in Milano, MI

Hand-painted Meissen porcelain plate, made in the 1960s Ø cm 21 Meissen porcelain is considered one of the earliest and finest examples of European porcelain. Originating in 1710 i...

Category

1960s German Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Set of three Neoclassical Italian Porcelain Plates
Set of three Neoclassical Italian Porcelain Plates

Set of three Neoclassical Italian Porcelain Plates

By Real Fabbrica Ferdinandea 1

Located in New York, NY

Set of three Neoclassical Italian Porcelain Plates. Three Real Fabbrica hand painted and gilded Naples Neoclassical Empire soup plates with central roundels depicting jewel toned my...

Category

Early 19th Century Italian Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Societe Parisienne d'Orfevrerie (Odiot) - 184pc. French Vermeil Flatware Set
Societe Parisienne d'Orfevrerie (Odiot) - 184pc. French Vermeil Flatware Set

Societe Parisienne d'Orfevrerie (Odiot) - 184pc. French Vermeil Flatware Set

By Societe Parisienne d'Orfevrerie

Located in Wilmington, DE

Direct from France: Direct from a private chateau near Paris, a stunning 184pc. gold plated sterling silver (vermeil) flatware set by internationally known French silversmiths "Societe Parisienne d'Orfevrerie" complete with original 6-drawer storage cabinet and 16 magnificent serving pieces, superb condition - circa 1911 and no monograms. The annals of 19th century French silverware bear witness to numerous illustrious workshops, yet few achieved the remarkable synthesis of technical mastery, artistic innovation, and aristocratic prestige as the Société Parisienne d'Orfèvrerie. Founded by Odiot during the flourishing years of the Second Empire, this distinguished Parisian firm carved its legacy through exceptional creations in gold-plated 950 sterling silver, known as vermeil, particularly in the realm of flatware. While maintaining its distinct identity, the firm's close association with the legendary Odiot dynasty - through shared master craftsmen, parallel design philosophies, and overlapping aristocratic patronage - positioned it among the foremost creators of luxury tableware in nineteenth-century Europe. The Early Years: The emergence of Société Parisienne d'Orfèvrerie coincided with a period of remarkable innovation in French decorative arts during the mid-nineteenth century. Though lacking the multi-generational heritage of the Odiot dynasty, which traced its origins to 1690, SPO rapidly ascended to prominence by adopting and adapting the exacting standards that had made Odiot synonymous with excellence in European silverware. This connection manifested most significantly through the migration of skilled artisans between workshops, as numerous master silversmiths who had trained in Odiot's ateliers brought their expertise to SPO's benches. These craftsmen carried with them not only technical knowledge but also the aesthetic sensibilities that defined French high silverwork during this golden age. What set Société Parisienne d'Orfèvrerie apart was its particular specialization in vermeil, the art of gold-plating sterling silver. While Odiot certainly produced vermeil pieces among its vast output, SPO made this technique a defining characteristic of its production, particularly in flatware. The process demanded extraordinary precision, involving the plating of 950 sterling silver - an alloy of exceptional purity containing 95% fine silver - with a substantial layer of 24-karat gold. This marriage of precious metals created tableware that combined the structural integrity and luminous quality of silver with the sumptuous warmth of gold, resulting in pieces that glowed with rich, deep radiance. The technical challenges of this process were considerable, requiring perfect preparation of the silver surface and meticulous control of the gilding bath to ensure even, durable coverage that would withstand generations of use. Master Craftsman in Vermeil: The foundation of SPO's flatware excellence lay in its uncompromising approach to materials and technique. In an era when many manufacturers had begun adopting the 925-sterling standard for economic reasons, SPO remained steadfast in its use of 950 silver, a purer alloy that offered superior workability and a distinctive luminous quality. This higher silver content not only enhanced the metal's natural brilliance but also provided greater resistance to the stresses of daily use, ensuring that pieces maintained their structural integrity over decades of service. The gold plating process itself represented a triumph of French electrochemical innovation, with SPO's craftsmen perfecting a technique that deposited a substantially thicker and more durable layer of gold than conventional gilding methods. Each component in an SPO flatware service represented countless hours of skilled labor, beginning with the careful forging of blanks that would be transformed through a series of specialized processes. Master chasers employed repoussé techniques to create intricate decorative motifs on handles, working from the reverse side to produce low-relief designs of floral arrangements, mythological scenes, or geometric patterns. Engravers then refined these elements, adding delicate details that brought the designs to life with astonishing realism. The functional elements of each piece received equal attention, with blades and bowls carefully balanced for optimal weight distribution and ergonomic comfort. A single place setting might require weeks of work from multiple specialists, each contributing their expertise to create a harmonious whole. The most elaborate commissions incorporated personalized elements that transformed functional tableware into bespoke works of art. Aristocratic clients frequently requested custom monograms or family crests, often executed in exquisite detail with additional embellishments of enamel or precious stones. These personalized touches not only demonstrated the owner's status but also served as a testament to SPO's ability to accommodate the most discerning tastes. The firm's workshops maintained extensive pattern books containing hundreds of design variations, allowing for nearly infinite customization while maintaining the cohesive aesthetic that defined SPO's output. A Favorite of European Royalty: Like its esteemed counterpart Odiot, Société Parisienne d'Orfèvrerie enjoyed considerable favor among European royalty and aristocracy, particularly during the reign of Napoleon III. The Second Empire court's appetite for lavish tableware created ideal conditions for SPO's ascent, with the firm's vermeil flatware becoming a particular favorite for state banquets and diplomatic gifts. The inherent qualities of vermeil - its resistance to tarnishing in humid conditions and its opulent visual appeal - made it especially desirable among the international elite who frequented Paris during this period of unprecedented luxury. Among SPO's most illustrious commissions was a comprehensive twelve-place vermeil service created for Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III. This magnificent ensemble exemplified the rococo revival style favored by the imperial court, with each piece featuring elaborate rocaille scrollwork intertwined with naturalistic vine motifs. The service's attention to detail extended to its specialized pieces, including fish servers with delicately pierced blades and sauce ladles with perfectly balanced handles. Another significant patron, Tsar Alexander II of Russia, commissioned a vermeil flatware service featuring Cyrillic monograms and subtle references to traditional Russian decorative arts, demonstrating SPO's ability to adapt its designs to diverse cultural preferences. The firm's clientele extended beyond imperial courts to include the rising financial and industrial elites of the period. American magnates touring Europe, British aristocrats refreshing their country estates, and the newly wealthy bourgeoisie of Paris all sought SPO's creations as tangible symbols of their refined taste and social standing. This broad appeal stemmed from SPO's unique position at the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and innovative production techniques, allowing it to meet the exacting standards of old-world aristocracy while satisfying the practical demands of modern entertaining. Awards and Accolades: The excellence of Société Parisienne d'Orfèvrerie's creations received formal recognition at the great international exhibitions that served as showcases for industrial and artistic achievement throughout the nineteenth century. The 1855 Paris Exposition Universelle marked a watershed moment for the firm, where its exhibition of vermeil flatware earned a gold medal and lavish praise from the international jury. Contemporary accounts particularly noted the flawless execution of the gilding and the ergonomic perfection of each piece, with one critic remarking that the flatware seemed to "anticipate the hand's movements before being lifted." Subsequent appearances at the 1862 London International Exhibition and the 1867 Paris World's Fair further cemented SPO's reputation as a leader in luxury flatware...

Category

Early 20th Century Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Vermeil, Sterling Silver

Pair of Antique French Ormolu Doré Gilt Bronze Etageres Bases by Thomire
Pair of Antique French Ormolu Doré Gilt Bronze Etageres Bases by Thomire

Pair of Antique French Ormolu Doré Gilt Bronze Etageres Bases by Thomire

By Pierre-Philippe Thomire

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A fine pair of antique French bases for etageres. By Pierre-Phillippe Thomire. In doré gilt bronze. Each with a central column with a mounting thread to the top surrounded by a la...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Bronze

Antique Signed 19th Century Figural Russian 84 Silver Pear Shaped Tea Strainer
Antique Signed 19th Century Figural Russian 84 Silver Pear Shaped Tea Strainer

Antique Signed 19th Century Figural Russian 84 Silver Pear Shaped Tea Strainer

By Pavel Ovchinnikov, Feodor Rückert, Karl Fabergé

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A fine mid-19th century Russian tea strainer. In 84 Zolotnik silver. By Carl Gustav Ekqvist of St. Petersburg. The figural bowl in the form of a pear supported by an intertwined '...

Category

Mid-19th Century Russian Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Silver

Large Set of 25 Antique Baccarat Tumbler glasses from Sainte Anne, Voneche 1810.
Large Set of 25 Antique Baccarat Tumbler glasses from Sainte Anne, Voneche 1810.

Large Set of 25 Antique Baccarat Tumbler glasses from Sainte Anne, Voneche 1810.

By Voneche

Located in Trieste, IT

Important 33 piece set of 1st Empire Cut-Glass Tumbler glasses from Sainte Anne crystal factory in Voneche, 1810 circa. Similar pieces are in fundus of the Louvre collection. "Gobele...

Category

1810s Belgian Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Blown Glass, Cut Glass

Georgian Silver Mustard Pots Blue Glass Liners 1st Empire Tableware a pair
Georgian Silver Mustard Pots Blue Glass Liners 1st Empire Tableware a pair

Georgian Silver Mustard Pots Blue Glass Liners 1st Empire Tableware a pair

Museal Antique Georgian Sterling Silver Mustard pots Style: Empire, Georgian, Antique, Regency, Napoleonic Material sterling Silver with cobalt blue...

Category

Early 19th Century Belgian Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Silver

Picture Frame Holder pocket Sterling Silver Enamel 3 Photographs
Picture Frame Holder pocket Sterling Silver Enamel 3 Photographs

Picture Frame Holder pocket Sterling Silver Enamel 3 Photographs

By Salimbeni, Franco Salimbeni

Located in Firenze, FI

Pocket photos holder in sterling silver 925/1000 gold plated with two-tone translucent fired enamels on guillochè, with hand-engraved edges. Empire style Napoleon III. Octagonal hing...

Category

1980s Italian Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Gold, Gold Plate, Sterling Silver, Enamel

Large Naples White Porcelain Hercules Tureen
Large Naples White Porcelain Hercules Tureen

Large Naples White Porcelain Hercules Tureen

By Real Fabbrica Ferdinandea 1

Located in New York, NY

Large Naples white porcelain Hercules tureen. Impressive and important neoclassical Ferdinando IV porcelain soup tureen with large Hercules and Theiodamas finial caping a scroll volu...

Category

Early 19th Century Italian Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Faience, Porcelain

Picture Frame Silver rectangular concave corners for oval photo Salimbeni
Picture Frame Silver rectangular concave corners for oval photo Salimbeni

Picture Frame Silver rectangular concave corners for oval photo Salimbeni

By Franco Salimbeni, Salimbeni

Located in Firenze, FI

Rectangular frame with concave corners for oval photo in gold-plated 925/1000 sterling silver, with translucent fired enamel on guilloché and engraving in the French Empire style Lou...

Category

1970s Italian Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Gold Plate, Sterling Silver, Enamel

Piatto in Porcellana di Meissen Dipinto a Mano Anni 60
Piatto in Porcellana di Meissen Dipinto a Mano Anni 60

Piatto in Porcellana di Meissen Dipinto a Mano Anni 60

By Meissen Porcelain

Located in Milano, MI

Hand-painted Meissen porcelain plate, made in the 1960s Ø cm 21 Meissen porcelain is considered one of the earliest and finest examples of European porcelain. Originating in 1710 i...

Category

1960s German Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

19th C.  French Silver Commemorative  Three-Dimensional Napoleon Portrait Spoon
19th C.  French Silver Commemorative  Three-Dimensional Napoleon Portrait Spoon

19th C. French Silver Commemorative Three-Dimensional Napoleon Portrait Spoon

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

19th Century French Silver Commemorative 3-Dimensional Napoleon Portrait Spoon  Unmarked, France, 19th Century  A remarkable 19th-century French si...

Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Sterling Silver

French Nécessaire de Voyage
French Nécessaire de Voyage

French Nécessaire de Voyage

Located in New Orleans, LA

This exceptional and rare French nécessaire de voyage is almost certainly the work of the highly respected Parisian manufacturer Pierre-Dominique ...

Category

Early 19th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal, Silver

Pair of Russian Imperial Cut Crystal and Doré Bronze Centerpieces W/ Masks
Pair of Russian Imperial Cut Crystal and Doré Bronze Centerpieces W/ Masks

Pair of Russian Imperial Cut Crystal and Doré Bronze Centerpieces W/ Masks

By Imperial Russia

Located in New York, NY

A beautiful pair of hand diamond cut Russian crystal and doré bronze mounted oval shaped centerpieces in the Louis XVI style, attributed to the Imperial Russian Glass Manufactory, early 1800s. Each beautiful hand diamond cut crystal bowl...

Category

Early 19th Century Russian Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal, Bronze

Table Cigar Box two-tone stripes enamel Sterling Silver Salimbeni
Table Cigar Box two-tone stripes enamel Sterling Silver Salimbeni

Table Cigar Box two-tone stripes enamel Sterling Silver Salimbeni

By Salimbeni, Giorgio Salimbeni

Located in Firenze, FI

This superb Table Cigar Box two-tone stripes enamel is in 925/1000 sterling silver. it has a rectangular shape with rounded sides Table Cigar Box has hand engraving, with orange and ...

Category

1980s Italian Vintage Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Gold, Gold Plate, Sterling Silver, Enamel

Mid-20th Century French Cut Crystal / Gilt Cold  Liquor Cave
Mid-20th Century French Cut Crystal / Gilt Cold  Liquor Cave

Mid-20th Century French Cut Crystal / Gilt Cold Liquor Cave

Located in Tarry Town, NY

Mid-20th century French cut crystal champagne cave in a dome shape form with hand painted gilt gold design finial top and stem base. The cave features a...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Crystal, Gold Leaf

Set of Ten Empire Floral Decorated Gilt Banded Plates
Set of Ten Empire Floral Decorated Gilt Banded Plates

Set of Ten Empire Floral Decorated Gilt Banded Plates

Located in New York, NY

Antique set of ten Empire white and gilt plates with center floral bouquets; with underglaze red markings for L. Ernie 61 Rue du Bac., France, early 180...

Category

Early 19th Century European Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Puiforcat (Hermes) - 6pc. French Sterling Silver Tea Set, Empire Model
Puiforcat (Hermes) - 6pc. French Sterling Silver Tea Set, Empire Model

Puiforcat (Hermes) - 6pc. French Sterling Silver Tea Set, Empire Model

By Puiforcat

Located in Wilmington, DE

Direct from Paris: Direct from private mansion in Paris, a magnificent 6 piece antique French sterling silver Empire style tea set by France’s premier silversmith “Puiforcat” – curr...

Category

Late 19th Century Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Sterling Silver

19th Century Meissen Group of Calvary General Mikhail Kutuzov with Aide de Camp
19th Century Meissen Group of Calvary General Mikhail Kutuzov with Aide de Camp

19th Century Meissen Group of Calvary General Mikhail Kutuzov with Aide de Camp

By Meissen Porcelain

Located in New York, NY

A Very Large 19th century Meissen porcelain Group of Russian Calvary General, believed to be Mikhail Kutuzov, the hero of Borodino, with aide de camp, marked with the Meissen underglaze blue crossed swords, and incised and impressed with numbers. While Russia endured great hardships during Napoleon's invasion, it was the skill of her general's and a terrible Russian winter...

Category

1880s German Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Antique " KPM " Empire Porcelain Cup
Antique " KPM " Empire Porcelain Cup

Antique " KPM " Empire Porcelain Cup

By Kerafina Royal Porzellan KPM

Located in Kastrup, DK

KPM Porcelain cup decorated with a finely hand painted depiction of two women in nature. Inside with gilding (light wear to the gilding). KPM (Königlich...

Category

Early 19th Century German Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Royal Copenhagen Blue Fluted Plain. Antique gravy boat in porcelain.
Royal Copenhagen Blue Fluted Plain. Antique gravy boat in porcelain.

Royal Copenhagen Blue Fluted Plain. Antique gravy boat in porcelain.

Located in København, Copenhagen

PRE-OWNED GOODS ARE EXEMPT FROM IMPORT TARIFFS FOR U.S., UK, AUSTRALIAN & CANADIAN CUSTOMERS. THEREFORE, NO IMPORT TARIFFS WILL BE APPLICABLE TO YOUR PURCHASE. Royal Copenhagen ...

Category

1820s Danish Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Napoleonic Porcelain Soup Plates Set of 10 by Nast w/ French Imperial Decoration
Napoleonic Porcelain Soup Plates Set of 10 by Nast w/ French Imperial Decoration

Napoleonic Porcelain Soup Plates Set of 10 by Nast w/ French Imperial Decoration

By Nast

Located in Katonah, NY

This set of ten beautiful French porcelain soup plates was made by Nast, the Parisian factory renowned for producing porcelain for Napoleon and his imperial court. During the Napole...

Category

Early 19th Century Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Old Paris Porcelain Dihl et Guerhard Sprig Cornflower Basket or Corbeille
Old Paris Porcelain Dihl et Guerhard Sprig Cornflower Basket or Corbeille

Old Paris Porcelain Dihl et Guerhard Sprig Cornflower Basket or Corbeille

By Dihl and Guerhard

Located in Litchfield, CT

Large antique 18th c. Paris porcelain Dihl reticulated basket or Corbeille. Decorated in the sprig or cornflower pattern with rococo pierced gallery enhanced by bright gilding. Orang...

Category

Late 18th Century French Antique Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Porcelain

Large Crystal Glass Ball on Empire Style Silver Plate Tripod Stand
Large Crystal Glass Ball on Empire Style Silver Plate Tripod Stand

Large Crystal Glass Ball on Empire Style Silver Plate Tripod Stand

Located in San Francisco, CA

A large glass orb on an elegant Empire style silver plate footed tripod base. Orb measures 8 inches in diameter. *Please ignore reflections in glass (the glass is clear and in excell...

Category

Mid-20th Century Empire Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Materials

Silver Plate

Empire serveware, ceramics, silver and glass for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Empire serveware, ceramics, silver and glass 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 serveware, ceramics, silver and glass created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include serveware, ceramics, silver and glass, decorative objects, lighting and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with metal, ceramic and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Empire serveware, ceramics, silver and glass 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 serveware, ceramics, silver and glass, popular names associated with this style include Baccarat, Giorgio Salimbeni, Franco Salimbeni, and Christofle. 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 serveware, ceramics, silver and glass differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $56 and tops out at $126,260 while the average work can sell for $2,396.