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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 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

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

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

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 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

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

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

Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

Antique 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

Antique 20th Century Egyptian-Themed Trinket Dish - 2Y135
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover a touch of ancient Egypt with this intriguing 20th-century piece, which could serve as an ashtray or trinket dish. Crafted, from brass, this item features a theme inspired by Egyptian art and design. The piece is sold as-is, showing signs of age with surface wear, partial scratches, and slight oxidation. The top section is somewhat damaged, and a serpent design has partially faded. Despite its imperfections, this item adds a unique historical charm to any collection. Key Features: Type: Trinket Dish Theme: Ancient Egypt Material: Brass Condition: worn with surface scratches, slight oxidation, top damage, and faded serpent design (see photos) Country of Manufacture: Egypt Dimensions: Diameter: 7 cm (2.8 inches) Height: 3 cm (1.2 inches) Weight: 93 grams (0.2 lbs) This antique piece is perfect for collectors of Egyptian artifacts...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass

Nidervillier "Ecume" Hand-Decorated Plate or Trinket Tray, Made in France, 2Y109
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This magnificent piece from Nidervillier, known for its intricate craftsmanship, serves as both a plate and a trinket tray. The "Ecume" design showcases a hand-decorated bicolore pat...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

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

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

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

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 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

Vintage 20th Century Bronze Trinket Dish Signed "Clenget" - 2Y213
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of vintage elegance to your space with this 20th-century bronze trinket dish, signed "Clenget." This beautifully crafted piece serves a...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Bronze

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 Book on Wool Fabrication - 1926 Edition by C. Thomas & P. Araud, 2Y122
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the craftsmanship of wool fabric production with this antique book titled "La Fabrication du Drap," authored by Charles Thomas and Pierre Araud. Published by Léon Eyrolles i...
Category

1920s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

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

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 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

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

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 Renault Road Tractor Toy- 2Y41
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Introducing a classic piece of vintage machinery: this small Renault road tractor. This collectible toy tractor offers a glimpse into mid-20th-centur...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

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

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Marble, Pewter

Vintage 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

Lot of 3 Vinyl Records - Various Music Styles: G. Bécaud, Julio Iglesias - 2Y28
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This collection features 3 vinyl records from various musical styles, including artists G. Bécaud, Julio Iglesias, and Alibert. Each record brings a unique sound to your collection, ...
Category

Late 20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Beautiful Hand-Painted Chinese Vase Signed "L'art de Chine" - Macau - 2Y72
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite Chinese vase, signed "L'art de Chine," is a hand-painted piece created in Macau. The vase features intricate designs and delicate gilding, making it a stunning additio...
Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Vintage 1974 Matchbox Sherman Tank by Lesney - Battle Kings Series - 2Y194
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This collectible piece from the 1974 Matchbox Battle Kings series features the iconic Sherman tank. A must-have for vintage toy enthusiasts or military memorabilia collectors, this t...
Category

1970s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

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

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Alabaster, Brass

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

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

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

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 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 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

Antique 20th Century Bonbonnière in Genuine L.F. Porcelain, Coach Scene - 2Y128
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Elevate your collection with this exquisite antique bonbonnière, crafted from genuine L.F. porcelain and featuring a charming coach scene. This del...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

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

Antique "Hamage Nord" Faience Plate - 20th Century - 2Y33
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the charm of vintage ceramics with this antique faience plate from "Hamage Nord," dating from the 20th century or earlier. Sign...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Faience

Book: Le Livre et les Arts qui s'y Rattachent (1887) by M.P. Louisy- 2Y96
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This classic book, "Le Livre et les Arts qui s'y Rattachent", authored by M.P. Louisy, explores the relationship between books and the arts, providing valuable insights into the subj...
Category

1880s French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Charming Lithograph by Jean Pierre Bertaux "Le Marais" with Certificate - 2Y173
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This captivating lithograph titled "Le Marais" by Jean Pierre Bertaux showcases a serene and picturesque marsh scene. Accompanied by a numbered certificate of authentication (No. 45)...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage Hanging Sculpture of a Woman by Igor S. Stéphano - Numbered 611 - 2Y143
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite vintage hanging sculpture by Igor S. Stéphano captures the elegance and grace of a woman in stunning detail. Made of ceramic and porcelain, the sculpture showcases vib...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic, Porcelain

Antique book "Retour en Chrétienté" - Collection by J. Servel - 2Y36
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the insightful collection titled "Retour en Chrétienté" by J. Servel, a notable work reflecting on religious themes. Published by Édition du Chalet, this book is an essential...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage 20th-Century Small Enameled Earthenware Pot with Floral Decor - 2Y155
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming vintage 20th-century small pot is made of enameled earthenware and features a delicate floral design. The pot is in good overall condition with some small spots and a c...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Earthenware

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

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 Missal No. 21 "L'Imitation de Jésus Christ" – A Spiritual Guide - 2Y180
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This antique missal, titled L'Imitation de Jésus Christ, is a precious spiritual work published by the esteemed C. Droguet & R. Ardant. A beautifully co...
Category

19th Century French Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Lot of 3 Classical Vinyl Records - Beethoven, Luis Mariano, Strauss - 2Y18
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your classical music collection with this lot of 3 vinyl records featuring renowned composers and performers. This set includes works by Beethoven, Luis Mariano, and Strauss,...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

Vintage Two-Arm Brass Wall Sconce – 1940s Decorative Design - 2Y62
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of classic elegance to your interior with this vintage two-arm brass wall sconce. Dating from the 1940s, this beautifully crafted piece features ornate detailing and timeless style. Its warm brass finish exudes a vintage charm that can enhance any room. Type: Wall Sconce (Two-Arm) Sub-Type: Interior Lighting Material: Brass Style: 1940s Vintage Maximum Power: Less than 40 Watts Decorative Features: Ornate brass design Dimensions: Height (without bulb): 23.5 cm (9.3 inches) Width: 18.5 cm (7.3 inches) Weight: 630 grams (1.39 lbs) Condition: Good; some areas require polishing. The lamp holder is slightly damaged (see photos). This vintage brass wall sconce...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Brass

Lot of 3 Vinyl Records - Emmio Marricane, Juliette Gréco, Joza Vlahovic - 2Y16
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore this diverse collection of 3 vinyl records featuring a range of musical styles from different artists. This set includes works by Emmio Marricane, Juliette Gréco, and Joza Vl...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plastic

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 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 Miniature Vase "Tentsin Porcelain Hp" with Floral Decor - 2Y56
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming miniature vase, marked "Tentsin Porcelain Hp," features an elegant floral decor. Its intricate design and delicate size make it a lovely addition to any collection or a...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

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

Vintage Enameled & Crackled Terra Cotta Jug in Beautiful Color - 2Y158
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This antique vintage jug, made from terra cotta, features an elegant enameled and crackled finish in a beautiful color. A charming addition to any...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Terracotta

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

Set of 5 Green Vintage Crystal Liqueur Glasses - 2Y174
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This elegant set of 5 liqueur glasses is crafted from fine crystal, featuring a beautiful green hue that adds a touch of sophistication to any setting. Ideal for special occasions or...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Crystal

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

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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