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
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
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
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 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
Vintage Watercolor Drawing by Jacques Courtade, "Nude Woman" - 2Y164
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage watercolor drawing by Jacques Courtade, titled "Nude Woman," showcases the artist's adept use of color and form. The piece, known for its elegant depiction and emotional...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Antique Book by Ch. Deslys - "Les Récits de la Grève" 5th Edition, 2Y123
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the compelling narratives of historical struggles with this antique book by Ch. Deslys, titled "Les Récits de la Grève." Published by Librairie Ch. Delagrave, this 5th editio...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Vintage Lithograph: Chronology of the Death of Jesus - Esotericism - 2Y101
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is a vintage lithograph depicting the chronology of the death of Jesus, a piece that touches on themes of religion and esotericism. The artwork is framed, offering a timeless an...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Wood, Paper
Vintage 20th Century Book by Paul Hervieu – "L'Armature" - 2Y224
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Pre-owned
Comments: In good condition. Please refer to the photos for more details.
Author: Paul Hervieu
Title: "L'Armature"
Language: French
Era: Early 20th Century
Dimensions:
Height: 24.5 cm (9.65 inches)
Length: 17.5 cm (6.89 inches)
Thickness: 1 cm (0.39 inches)
Weight: 436 grams (0.96 lbs)
This early 20th-century book by Paul Hervieu, titled "L'Armature," is a literary piece reflecting the nuanced narratives of its time. It remains in good condition, with some signs of age, making it a valuable addition for collectors of vintage French literature.
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
La Folle Aventure by André Lichtenberger, 1913 Edition - 2Y150
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is an original 1913 edition of La Folle Aventure by André Lichtenberger, featuring illustrations by Robert Kastor as part of the Lafitte collection. The book has 122 pages and i...
Category
1910s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Antique Book by Jules Verne - "L'Île Mystérieuse" Part 1, 2Y124
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Dive into the adventurous world of Jules Verne with this antique edition of "L'Île Mystérieuse" (Part 1). This captivating novel is a treasure for collectors and fans of classic lite...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Antique 1881 Book "Ce que disent les champs" by Baronne de Mackau - 2Y228
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Fair
Comments: This book is in fairly good condition for its age. The cover and spine show light wear, while the pages exhibit some foxing and a slight yellowing typical o...
Category
1880s French Antique Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Vintage 1950 Longwy Bagatelle Hand-Painted Floral Platter/Tray - 2Y216
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite vintage Longwy Bagatelle platter/tray from 1950 features a stunning hand-painted floral design, showcasing the timeless craftsmanship of the renowned Longwy ceramic ar...
Category
1950s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Ceramic
Les Grands Thèmes de l'Art: L'Évangile Illustré - Editions Des Horizons - 2Y176
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the beauty and depth of religious art with this captivating two-volume set, Les Grands Thèmes de l'Art: L'Évangile Illustré, published by Des Horizons de France. These illus...
Category
Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
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
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 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
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
Set of Authentic S.E.R France Porcelain Coffee Pot, Pitcher & Sugar Bowl - 2Y48
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This elegant set includes a coffee pot, pitcher, and sugar bowl made from authentic porcelain by S.E.R France. Each piece features timeless design and superior craftsmanship, making ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Porcelain
Vintage Set of 5 White Opaline Spheres for Wall Sconces - 2Y161
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage set of five white opaline spheres is designed for use with wall sconces, adding a touch of classic elegance to any interior. These spheres are ideal for restoring or upg...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Opaline Glass
Set of 3 Vintage Japanese Magnets - 2Y32
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this set of 3 vintage Japanese magnets. Each magnet features vibrant and detailed designs, showcasing the charm of classic Japanese aesthetics. These mag...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Magnets
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 60's Enamel Metal Hanging Lamp – Retro Suspension Light - 2Y05
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage 60's enamel metal hanging lamp is a charming piece from the mid-20th century. With its classic design and durable materials, it adds a touch of retro style to any interi...
Category
1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Metal
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
Vintage 1940s Wooden Magazine Rack – Classic Storage for Newspapers - 2Y196
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage wooden magazine rack from the 1940s is a stylish and functional addition to your home or office. Designed to hold newspapers,...
Category
1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Wood
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
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
Charming Painting Signed R.Y - City Alleyway Scene, Oil on Canvas - 2Y84
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming small painting, signed by the artist R.Y, beautifully depicts a quaint city alleyway. The oil on canvas work captures the essence of urban charm with detailed brushwork...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Canvas
Antique 20th Century Book by Paul Bourget "André Cornélis" - Paris - 2Y237
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Fair
Comments: The book is in good condition. Please see the photos for more details.
Author: Paul Bourget
Title: "André Cornélis"
Publisher: Arthème Fayard, Paris Modern-...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Antique Faience Pot with Handle and Floral Decoration - 2Y63
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming antique faience pot features a handle and beautiful floral decoration, perfect for adding a touch of vintage elegance to any collection or décor.
Type: Pot
Material: ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Faience
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
Lot of 3 Music Story Vinyl Records - Volumes 1, 9, 10 (33 RPM) - 2Y37
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This set features three classic vinyl records from the "Music Story" series, including volumes 1, 9, and 10. Each record offers a diverse selection of musical styles and artists, providing a nostalgic listening experience for vinyl enthusiasts.
Product Details:
Type: Vinyl Records
Series: Music Story
Volumes Included: 1, 9, 10
Speed: 33 RPM
Artists Featured:
Volume 1: Little Eva, Chubby Checker, Alan...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Plastic
Charming Handcrafted Enamelled Clay Vase - Signed P.M.E - 2Y184
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautiful handcrafted vase, signed by P.M.E, is a unique and decorative piece that adds a touch of artisanal charm to any space. Made from terracotta and finished with a rich br...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Terracotta
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 Lithograph of Reclining Nude by "Sujio Velleuni" - 2Y168
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This striking lithograph by "Sujio Velleuni" features a compelling depiction of a reclining nude, showcasing the artist's mastery in capturing the human form with sensitivity and ele...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Vintage Sonic Flasher USAF Miniature Airplane – Small Collectible Toy - 2Y198
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage Sonic Flasher miniature airplane from the USAF is a charming collectible for aviation enthusiasts and toy collectors alike. Although missing the cockpit, it retains its ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Plastic
Antique Faience Plate - 20th Century or Earlier, "Hamage Nord" Design- 2Y12
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover this exquisite antique faience plate from the 20th century or earlier, showcasing the distinctive "Hamage Nord" design with the captivat...
Category
Early 20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Faience
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
Large and Elegant Charcoal Drawing by "Cyo" Dated April 30, 2002 - 2Y167
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This grand and exquisite charcoal drawing, signed by the artist "Cyo" and dated April 30, 2002, captures the intricate detail and depth of charcoal artistry. Its substantial size and...
Category
Early 2000s French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Charming Small Terra Cotta Flower Pot with Vineyard Design - 2Y157
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming small flower pot is crafted from terra cotta and features a delightful vineyard design. Perfect for adding a touch of rustic charm to your home or garden.
Material: Te...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Terracotta
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 Set of 6 Sarreguemines Plates with Floral Décor - 2Y160
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage set of six Sarreguemines plates features a charming floral décor, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your dining table. These p...
Category
Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Ceramic
Vintage Jacques Courtade Drawing, Numbered 91 with Stamp - 2Y162
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage drawing by Jacques Courtade, numbered 91 and stamped, offers a unique and collectible piece of art. Known for its delicate watercolor technique, this drawing is a valuab...
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
Vintage 1989 Watercolor Drawing by Jacques Courtade, "Nude, Horse" - 2Y166
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage 1989 watercolor drawing by Jacques Courtade, titled "Nude, Horse," exemplifies the artist's mastery and evocative style. Signed by Courtade, this piece offers a striking...
Category
1980s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
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
Sarreguemines Pitcher or Jug with Grape and Vine Flower Design - 2Y98
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This elegant pitcher or jug from Sarreguemines features a detailed grape and vine flower motif, showcasing the craftsmanship and design typical of Sarreguemines pottery.
Condition:
...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Faience
Vintage Porcelain Bonbonnière with Floral Decoration & Gold Trim - 2Y46
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite porcelain bonbonnière features elegant floral decoration and gold trim, adding a touch of sophistication to any collection. The signature is present but unfortunately ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Porcelain
Vintage 1965 Jean Ferrat Barclay Vinyl Record - 33 RPM - French Chanson - 2Y145
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover a classic piece of French chanson with this vintage 1965 Jean Ferrat vinyl record by Barclay, spinning at 33 RPM. This record captures the timeless voice of Jean Ferrat, a c...
Category
1960s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Plastic
Book by E. Gochot: Voyage à la Ferme Illustrated with Engravings- 2Y94
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming book titled "Voyage à la Ferme" by E. Gochot offers a delightful exploration of farm life, illustrated with twenty-seven detailed engravings. It's an engaging read for ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Charming Oil Painting on Canvas – Village Church Scene - 2Y172
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautiful oil painting on canvas captures a serene village church, offering a timeless piece of art perfect for enhancing any space. With its warm tones and fine details, this a...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Canvas
Elegant Watercolor by Ludo - Reclining Nude Woman, Back View - 2Y88
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This elegant watercolor, signed by the artist Ludo, depicts a serene scene of a nude woman lying down, viewed from behind. The artwork captures the ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Wood, Paper
Vintage 20th Century Metal Lampshade Base with Functional Pulley - 1940s - 2Y130
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of vintage charm to your home with this antique 20th-century lampshade base, featuring a unique functional pulley system. This sturdy metal base, designed between the 194...
Category
1940s French Vintage Empire Antiquities
Materials
Metal
New Classic Atlas Delagrave by M. Fallex and A. Gilbert - 2Y93
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A detailed and informative atlas titled "Nouvelle Atlas Classique" by M. Fallex and A. Gilbert, published by Delagrave. This classic reference book is an essential tool for those int...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
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
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
Antique Lithograph by François Boucher "Vue des Environs de Beauvais" - 2Y169
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This antique lithograph by François Boucher, titled "Vue des Environs de Beauvais," offers a glimpse into the picturesque landscapes of Beauvais as envisioned by the renowned 18th-ce...
Category
18th Century French Antique Empire Antiquities
Materials
Paper
Vintage Large Faience Plate by M.B with Hand-Painted Floral Decor - 2Y57
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This large faience plate by M.B features exquisite hand-painted floral decor, showcasing fine craftsmanship and elegant design. Ideal for both display and use, it adds a touch of sop...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Faience
Large Sarreguemines Faience Salad Bowl with Tulip Flower Design - France - 2Y52
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This stunning large salad bowl from Sarreguemines, France, features a charming tulip flower design, showcasing the fine craftsmanship of French faience. Perfect for both everyday use...
Category
20th Century French Empire Antiquities
Materials
Faience
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.