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Empire Antiquities

EMPIRE STYLE

From 1804–15, Napoléon I reigned as the emperor of France, bringing the country into a new era of opulence after the fall of the monarchy and the tumultuous years of the French Revolution. He declared, “We must have very solid things, made to last 100 years.” Empire-style furniture followed suit, with imposing pieces constructed from mahogany and adorned with gilded ornaments. Expanding on the neoclassicism popularized in the previous century — such as in ​​Louis XVI style — Empire style borrowed from the great civilizations of antiquity, from Egypt to Greece and Rome, to connect this nascent empire to the power of the past.

Napoléon I believed the production of fine furniture would reflect the stature of the republic, with his official architects Charles Percier and Pierre-François-Léonard Fontaine leading the way with their work on his residences.

Luxurious materials, symmetrical shapes and bold colors characterize antique Empire-style bedroom furniture, armchairs, cabinets and other structures, with frequent motifs including mythological creatures, geometric designs, acanthus leaves, eagles, bees (the imperial emblem) and swans, a favorite of Empress Joséphine.

Flat surfaces, like marble tabletops, were accented with decadent details, such as the bronze furniture mounts made by sculptor Pierre-Philippe Thomire for the French palaces. Martin-Guillaume Biennais, who worked as the imperial goldsmith, crafted intricate luxury objects that mixed wood, fine metal, mother-of-pearl and ivory. Ormolu — or elaborate bronze gilding — was essential to French design in the 18th and 19th centuries as a cornerstone of the neoclassical and Empire styles.

The style became popular abroad, influencing the American Empire style. Stately pieces carved with sprigs of olives by cabinetmaker Pierre-Antoine Bellange were acquired by American President James Monroe for the White House in 1817.

Find a collection of antique Empire tables, lighting, seating and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Style: Empire
Wilhelm II 1901 Zwei Mark Coin – Historical German Collectible - 2Y104
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This remarkable piece of numismatic history is a Wilhelm II Zwei Mark coin from the German Empire, minted in 1901. In excellent condition, this coin is an exquisite addition to any c...
Category

Early 1900s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Antique Art Nouveau Coffee Pot – Brass & Copper with Ornate Swing Arm - 2Y44
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the charm of Art Nouveau with this antique coffee pot featuring an intricate brass and copper design. This elegant piece showcases a distin...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass, Copper

Vintage Miniature Anti-Tank Cannon - The Crescent Toys Militaria - 2Y34
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of historical charm to your collection with this vintage miniature anti-tank cannon by The Crescent Toys. Part of their militaria range, this collectible features detaile...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Canon Prima Zoom 76 Camera with 38-76mm 1:3.8-7.2 Lens - 2Y212
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the charm of film photography with this vintage Canon Prima Zoom 76 camera, featuring a versatile 38-76mm 1:3.8-7.2 lens. This classic point-and-...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage 1997 Hotwheels Mattel Ferrari F512m Toy - 2Y192
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A collectible piece for car enthusiasts, this vintage Hotwheels model of the Ferrari F512m, produced by Mattel in 1997, is a must-have for fans of iconic sports cars and die-cast mod...
Category

1990s French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Set of 6 Chinese Porcelain Rice Bowls with 3 Spoons - 2Y49
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This set includes 6 beautifully crafted Chinese porcelain rice bowls and 3 matching spoons. The elegant design and traditional craftsmansh...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Hand-Engraved Gilded Vase "India" – Elegant Vintage Decor - 2Y85
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Good condition overall. The base has some minor imperfections (see photos). Material: Brass with a hand-engraved design and gold finish. Design: Hand-engraved intricate pa...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass

Beautiful Hand-Carved Bas-Relief Storage or Jewelry Box - 2Y51
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite storage or jewelry box features hand-carved bas-relief detailing, showcasing expert craftsmanship. With its generous size and elegant design, this piece is perfect for...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Antique 19th-Century 1873 Engraving by Antonin Delzers - 2Y170
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This antique 1873 engraving by Antonin Delzers is a fine example of 19th-century craftsmanship. Executed with meticulous detail using the burin technique, the piece showcases Delzers...
Category

1870s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage 20th Century Wooden Crucifix with Christ Figure in Spelter - 2Y189
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage 20th-century crucifix is a beautiful and reverent piece, featuring a wooden cross and a Christ figure made of spelter. It would make a meaningful addition to any religio...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Spelter

Vintage Kodak Instamatic 133 Camera - 2Y218
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Capture a piece of photographic history with this vintage Kodak Instamatic 133 camera, a classic from the iconic brand that revolutionized amateur photography. This compact and light...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Polistil Ferrari 308 Die-Cast Model Car - Made in Italy - 2Y190
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage Polistil Ferrari 308 die-cast model car is a collectible piece made in Italy, representing the iconic Ferrari 308. Despite its age, it retains much of its original charm...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Lot of 5 Crystal Wine Glasses - Mid 20th Century - 2Y27
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Elevate your dining experience with this set of 5 crystal wine glasses, likely from the mid-20th century. Crafted from fine crystal, these glasses are a sophisticated addition to any...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Crystal

Vintage Wooden Crucifix with Christ in Régule – Christian Symbolism, 2Y114
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautifully crafted vintage crucifix is a remarkable piece of religious art, combining the warmth of wood with the intricate detailing of the Christ figure in régule. This cruci...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Antique Large Oil Lamp - Pewter, No Hallmark - 2Y82
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A charming antique large oil lamp, likely made of pewter, though unmarked. This lamp, with its timeless design, is in fairly good condition and would m...
Category

1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Pewter

Antique Copper Cauldron - "Poitiers" Engraved, Decorative Piece - 2Y14
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This antique copper cauldron, engraved with "Poitiers," is a stunning decorative piece that adds a touch of vintage charm to any setting. Its classic design and fine craftsmanship ma...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Copper

Vintage JRD Berliet Relaxe Truck Toy- 2Y42
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of vintage transportation history with this classic JRD Berliet Relaxe truck. This small collectible features a Berliet cab and is a testament to mid-20th-century toy...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Elegant Barometer and Thermometer with Copper Bas-Relief of a Woman - 2Y64
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your décor with this stunning barometer and thermometer featuring a detailed copper bas-relief of a woman. Combining functionality with art, ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Copper

Vintage Film with Box "ECPA" – "Combat de Rue" (Program No. 1126) - 2Y204
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare piece of militaria features a vintage film titled "Combat de Rue" from the "Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des Armées" (ECPA). Complete with its original...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Elegant Syrian Jewelry Box - Rectangular, Inlay Marquetry with Red Velvet - 2Y29
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the beauty of this elegant Syrian jewelry box, featuring intricate marquetry and a luxurious red velvet interior. This rectangular, flat box is ideal for storing jewelry, ke...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Velvet, Wood

Antique Book by J. Girardin - "Le Locataire des Demoiselles Rocher", 2Y120
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a classic piece of literature with this antique book by J. Girardin, titled "Le Locataire des Demoiselles Rocher." Published by Hachette, this novel offers a glimpse into historical storytelling and is a notable addition to any vintage book collection...
Category

1880s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Set of 4 Small Animal Figurines - Duck and Rabbit Statuettes - 2Y30
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this charming set of 4 small figurines featuring ducks and rabbits. These modern, multicolored statuettes are perfect for adding a whimsical touch to any...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Antique Book - Le Journal des Brodeuses, Special Issue March - 2Y134
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the artistry of embroidery with this antique book, Le Journal des Brodeuses, a special March issue. This vintage volume features 13 artistic bed l...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Pair of Antique Hand-Painted Longwy Plates - "Vacance" Design, France, 2Y116
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this charming pair of antique Longwy plates, each featuring the delightful "Vacance" motif. Crafted in France, these plates b...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Large Athénienne, 19th Century
Located in Greding, DE
Large Athénienne crafted from iron with a black patina, supported by three legs terminating in winged lion heads. Resting atop is a basin with gadrooned sides, a domed lid, and three...
Category

19th Century German Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Iron

Large Statuette of an Asian Woman with Peacock Decor - Resin - 2Y91
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Presenting a stunning large statuette of an Asian woman, exquisitely crafted in resin. This piece showcases intricate details, including a peacock, child, and other ornate decoration...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Resin

Vintage Crystal Sculpture "Cristal Plomb Garanti" by Art Verrier, Moselle, 2Y111
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite vintage sculpture from Art Verrier, renowned for their craftsmanship in the Moselle region, is a stunning example of fine crystal artistry. Made from guaranteed lead c...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Crystal

Vintage West Kéramik Grand Vase with Knight Decoration – W. Germany - 2Y195
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of vintage elegance to your collection with this grand vase from West Kéramik, featuring a charming knight decoration. Made in West Germany, this piece showcases a classi...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Vintage French Bourgeat Saucepan "Série Collectivité" Aluminum 18" - 2Y67
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautiful vintage Bourgeat saucepan from the "Série Collectivité" collection is crafted from durable aluminum and made in France. Perfect for both collectors and culinary enthus...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Aluminum

Pair of Vintage Brass Wall Sconces – Classic Design - 2Y60
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This pair of vintage brass wall sconces features a timeless design, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any room. The intricate detail...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass

Rare Military Collection – Vintage Film with Box "ECPA" - 2Y201
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare militaria piece features a vintage film titled "Les Bruits du Champ de Bataille" from the "Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Straw Marquetry Box with Floral Rose Design – Early 20th Century - 2Y105
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This delightful vintage box, crafted from marquetry straw, features an elegant floral rose design, likely from the early 20th century or even earlier. The intricate craftsmanship sho...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Dinky Toys Peugeot 403 - Vintage Toy Car - 2Y40
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of classic automotive history to your collection with this vintage Dinky Toys Peugeot 403. This small but charming toy car is a classic example ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage 20th Century Hammered Brass Ashtray - 2Y214
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage hammered brass ashtray, dating from the 20th century or earlier, is a fine example of craftsmanship that adds a touch of timeless elegance to any setting. Whether used a...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass

Framed Print "The Naval Review Spithead" by John Wilson (1800-1868) - 2Y199
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your space with this beautifully framed reproduction print titled "The Naval Review Spithead" by John Wilson. Capturing a historic naval scene, th...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Hammered Copper Bas-Relief of Poseidon's Head – Exquisite Detail - 2Y59
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This finely detailed hammered copper bas-relief depicts the majestic head of Poseidon, showcasing the craftsmanship of this stunning piece. The intricate detailing highlights the pow...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Copper

Antique Hand-Carved Maya Wooden Mask - Indigenous American Art, 2Y119
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this exquisite antique Maya mask, a stunning example of Indigenous American art. Hand-carved from wood, this mask showcases intr...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Antique 20th Century Venetian-Style Decorative Ceramic Teapot - 2Y142
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of elegance to your collection with this exquisite 20th-century Venetian-style teapot. Crafted from crackled ceramic, this teapot features intricate artistry typical of V...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Charming Reproduction of a Painting by Maurice Vlaminck - Fauvism - 2Y83
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming reproduction captures the vibrant and expressive style of Maurice Vlaminck, a prominent figure in the Fauvism movement. The piece depicts a stranded boat in bold colors...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Canvas

Beautiful Murano-Style Glass Trinket Dish in Violet-Pink - 2Y86
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Very good Description: This stunning trinket dish is crafted from glass, likely originating from Murano, Italy, although the original label is missing. The dish showcases...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Murano Glass

Vintage Magazine/Review: F1 Scratch No. 10 - November 1973 - 2Y102
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is a vintage issue of the "F1 Scratch" magazine, issue number 10 from November 1973. A must-have for collectors and enthusiasts of Formula 1 history, this magazine captures the ...
Category

1970s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Œuvres complètes de J. de la Fontaine" Tome II, circa 1838, Ed. Lefèvre, 2Y110
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of literary history with this antique edition of "Œuvres complètes de J. de la Fontaine," Tome II, published by Ed. Lefèvre around 1838. This rare volume, featuring the complete works of the celebrated French fabulist Jean de la Fontaine, is a collector's gem. The book has aged gracefully but shows signs of its journey through time. The pages have absorbed some moisture, leading to slight warping, while the cover has begun to detach in certain areas. This gives the book a distinctive character that speaks to its long past. Era: Circa 1838 Condition: Fair (Shows signs of wear and moisture damage; cover partially detached) Dimensions: Height: 20 cm (7.87 inches) Length: 13 cm (5.12 inches) Thickness: 4 cm (1.57 inches) Weight: 654 grams (1.44 lbs) Despite its age-related imperfections, this book remains a valuable and intriguing addition to any antique book collection...
Category

1830s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Reproduction of "Aquarelle de Didier Boulais – Le Port de La Rochelle" - 2Y65
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautiful reproduction of an original watercolor by Didier Boulais captures the serene and picturesque view of the Port of La Rochelle. Signed by the artist, this piece exudes t...
Category

1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage Hand-Carved Wooden Elephant Figurine – Rustic Artisan Craft - 2Y178
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of rustic charm to your home decor with this petite hand-carved wooden elephant figurine. Perfect for collectors or as a thoughtful gift, this piece showcases the beauty ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Vintage Vallauris Large Dish – 50 cm Pocket Tray with Signature - 2Y197
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Elevate your decor with this exquisite large dish from Vallauris, perfect as a decorative tray or pocket dish. Its signature craftsmanship and substantial size make it a versatile piece for both display and practical use. Material: Ceramic Signature: Vallauris Length: 50 cm (19.7 inches) Width: 26.5 cm (10.4 inches) Height: 7 cm (2.8 inches) Weight: 1.957 kg (4.3 lbs) Condition: Good condition with one noticeable chip on the edge and several small chips; underside shows slight wear (see photos for details) This Vallauris dish...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Vintage Alabaster and Brass Lamp Base with Lampshade - 2Y227
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Pre-owned Comments: In good condition. The lamp is functional, but the electrical wiring is not up to modern standards. The lampshade has small stains, a slight tear, and ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Alabaster, Brass

Vintage Dinky Toys Autocar Chausson Méccano – 15 cm Long - 2Y02
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of history with this vintage Dinky Toys model, featuring the classic Autocar Chausson by Méccano. Perfect for collectors and vintage toy enthusiasts, this model car showcases the timeless design and craftsmanship that Dinky Toys is renowned for. Details: Type: Vintage Model Car...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Vintage Wall-Mounted Porcelain Decorative Plate – "Christmas Eve", 2Y115
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming vintage wall-mounted decorative plate captures the warmth and tradition of Christmas Eve in the picturesque village of Greetsiel, Germany. Issued in 1979 as part of a l...
Category

1970s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Antique 19th/Early 20th Century Commemorative Bronze Plaque - Gadzarts - 2Y183
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exceptional antique bronze plaque, dating from the 19th century or early 20th century, is a rare and significant piece associated with the ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Bronze

Jules Verne Book - First Part, 7th Edition, Ed. Hetzel - 2Y80
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A classic Jules Verne book titled "Un Capitaine de Quinze Ans" (A Captain at Fifteen), first part, 7th edition published by Ed. Hetzel. This vintage b...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Small Marbled Onyx and Pewter Jug Vase – Elegant Decorative Piece - 2Y66
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Elevate your home décor with this small marbled onyx and pewter jug vase. This unique piece showcases the natural beauty of onyx with its captivating marbled pattern, complemented by...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Marble, Pewter

Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder Vinyl "We Are the World" - 2Y07
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Own a piece of musical history with this vintage 45 RPM vinyl record of USA for Africa's iconic single "We Are the World." Featuring legendary artists M...
Category

1980s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

19th Century Pewter Plate with Handle – "Les étains de la tour" - 2Y225
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Pre-owned Comments: Good condition for its age. Shows signs of use with scratches throughout and some oxidation. Needs polishing. Please refer to the photos for more detai...
Category

1820s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Pewter

Vintage Book Sunday and Feast Day Missal - Editions Brépols - 2Y188
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage missal, Missel des Dimanches et des Fêtes, published by Editions Brépols, is a classic religious book ideal for collectors or those interested in liturgical history. It includes readings and prayers for Sundays and feast days, making it a valuable addition to any religious collection. Title: Missel des Dimanches et des Fêtes Publisher: Editions Brépols Language: French Binding: Hardcover Condition: Good condition. The cover shows slight wear, and two pages have been taped back together (Please see photos for details). Dimensions: Height: 13.8 cm (5.4 inches) Length: 8.5 cm (3.3 inches) Width: 2.5 cm (1 inch) Weight: 186 g (0.41 lbs) This missal is perfect for those who appreciate vintage religious items...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Antique Vintage Lamp Base in Alabaster and Brass with Lampshade - 2Y231
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Good Comments: The lamp is in working condition, though the electrical wiring does not meet modern standards. The alabaster and brass lamp base is in good condition, with ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Alabaster, Brass

A-Ha "Take on Me" 45 RPM Vinyl - Produced by Alan Tarney, 1985 - 2Y13
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Own a classic piece of music history with this 45 RPM vinyl record of A-Ha's hit single "Take on Me," produced by Alan Tarney in 1985. A quintessential track from the 80s, this recor...
Category

1980s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Antique Guatemalan Hand-Carved Wooden Mask Sculpture with Original Label - 2Y147
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming antique Guatemalan sculpture features a hand-carved wooden mask, complete with its original label on the back. The craftsmanship highlights the cultural heritage of Gua...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood

Vintage Military Film with Metal Box "ECPA" - Protection Individuelle - 2Y205
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare militaria collectible features an old military film housed in its original metal box from the Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des Armées (ECPA). The film,...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Elegant Ceramic Rose Trinket Dish or Paperweight - 2Y15
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your space with this beautiful small trinket dish or paperweight, featuring a delicate ceramic rose. Its charming design adds a touch of elegance to any desk or vanity. Prod...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

Vintage Book by Charles de Gaulle "Mémoire de Guerre: Le Salut 1944-1946", 2Y112
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage edition of "Mémoire de Guerre: Le Salut 1944-1946" by Charles de Gaulle offers a unique insight into the mind of one of the 20th century’s most influential leaders. Cove...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Empire antiquities for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Empire antiquities for sale on 1stDibs. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee.

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