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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
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

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 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

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

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

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

Book by Eugène Nyon: "Les Cœurs d'Or" - Illustrated with 16 Drawings - 2Y92
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A charming vintage book titled "Les Cœurs d'Or" by Eugène Nyon, featuring 16 exquisite two-tone illustrations. This work is a beautiful example of classic French literature...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

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 20th-Century Large Watercolor Signed Samuele 92 - 2Y185
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This stunning large watercolor painting, signed by Samuele in 1992, beautifully captures a serene landscape of a river surrounded by a lush forest. The artwork showcases the artist's...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Antique 20th-Century Large Lamp Base and Lampshade with Decoration - 2Y181
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite lamp, from the mid-20th century, is a striking piece that combines a richly detailed ceramic base with a beautifully crafted lampshade. Adorned with a floral and manda...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

20th Century Book by Henri Lavedan – "Sire" - 2Y226
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Pre-owned Comments: In good condition. Please refer to the photos for more details. Author: Henri Lavedan Title: Sire Language: French Era: 20th Century Dimensions: Height: 24.5 cm (9.65 inches) Length: 17.5 cm (6.89 inches) Thickness: 1 cm (0.39 inches) Weight: 470 grams (1.04 lbs) This 20th-century book by Henri Lavedan, titled Sire, is in good condition, making it a valuable addition to any collection of classic French literature...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

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 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

Hand-Painted Miniature House from Mallorca - Plaster Figurine - 2Y19
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a charming touch to your decor with this hand-painted miniature house from Mallorca. Crafted from plaster, this colorful figurine captures the essence of traditional architecture...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Plaster

Small Wall-Mounted Porcelain Christ with Esoteric Container - 2Y09
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a unique touch to your decor with this small wall-mounted porcelain Christ featuring an esoteric container. This vintage piece combines religious and mystical elements, making it...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

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

J. Bonin Painting "Au pays du Mont-Blanc" - December 1992, Signed - 2Y77
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite oil painting by J. Bonin, titled "Au pays du Mont-Blanc," captures the serene beauty of the Mont-Blanc region with its majestic mountains and charming chalet. Painted ...
Category

1990s French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Canvas

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

Antique Vintage Clay Pitcher "Scheurich" W. Germany, Numbered 404-16 - 2Y127
Located in Bordeaux, FR
I am offering this charming antique clay pitcher by "Scheurich," a renowned German pottery manufacturer, numbered 404-16. Originating from West G...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Clay

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 Military Toy Car by France Jouets – Used Condition - 2Y38
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of history with this vintage military toy car from France Jouets. This classic collectible is a testament to mid-20th-century cra...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

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

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

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

Vintage 20th Century Book "L'Inconnu" by Paul Hervieu - Paris - 2Y239
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage 20th-century book, titled "L'Inconnu" by Paul Hervieu, is part of the Paris Modern-Bibliothèque collection. The book is in good condition, with some signs of wear consis...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Oil Painting by Y. Maffei - Small Town by a Riverside Scene - 2Y90
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautiful oil painting by Y. Maffei captures a serene scene of a small town nestled by a tranquil river. The artwork is executed on canvas and showcases Maffei's skillful use of...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Canvas

Vintage 20th Century Floral Hand Painted Decorated Serving Platter - 2Y241
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming vintage 20th-century serving platter features a beautiful floral design, making it an elegant addition to any dining setting. The platter is made of ceramic and is fini...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

19th Century Eagle Painted Cast Iron Nut Cracker
Located in Stamford, CT
American 19th century eagle nut cracker. Cast iron with original painted finish.
Category

1880s American Antique Empire Antiquities

Materials

Iron

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 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

Antique Lithograph of a Drawing Signed by Jean Cocteau - 2Y236
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Fair Comments: The lithograph is in good condition, but the glass protecting it needs to be replaced due to multiple scratches. There is a small stain on the subject in th...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

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

Vintage Book: "Toi & Moi" by Paul Geraldy - 1951 Edition - 2Y31
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the timeless beauty of classic literature with this vintage book, "Toi & Moi" by Paul Geraldy, published in 1951. This charming edition offers a glimpse into mid-20th-century...
Category

1950s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

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

Vintage Charming Small Ceramic Basket - 2Y209
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming small basket, crafted from ceramic, offers a delightful touch of vintage elegance. Perfect for decorative use or as a quaint storage option, it showcases a timeless des...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

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

Bécassine Nourrice - 1924 Edition by Ed. de la "Semaine de Suzette" - 2Y24
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Delve into the world of Bécassine with this original 1924 edition of "Bécassine Nourrice," published by Ed. de la "Semaine de Suzette" and illustrated by Pinchon. This classic volume...
Category

1920s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Practical Manual of Oil Painting by Marine Ernest Hareux - Illustrated - 2Y99
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This manual by Marine Ernest Hareux offers comprehensive guidance on oil painting techniques, enriched with illustrations. It provides valuable insights for artists interested in mas...
Category

Early 1900s 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

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 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

Pitcher "Savines les Lacs" Genuine High-Fired Flame Glazed Stoneware - 2Y210
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming pitcher, carafe, or jug from "Savines les Lacs" is crafted from genuine high-fired flame-glazed stoneware. It boasts a rustic yet elegant design, making it a versatile ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Stoneware

Antique 1926 Book "Le visage de Rome Chrétienne" by G. Goyau - 2Y234
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Fair Comments: The book is in fairly good condition with slight yellowing of the pages and some damage to the spine. Please refer to the photos for further details. Author...
Category

1920s French Vintage Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

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

Vintage Small Floral Decor Ceramic Trinket Dish - 2Y58
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming small trinket dish features a delicate floral design, perfect for holding small items or simply adding a touch of vintage style to your décor. Crafted from quality cera...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

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

Ancienne Lithographie "Le Divin Cœur de Jésus" - Christianisme, Religion - 2Y79
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is an antique lithograph titled "Le Divin Cœur de Jésus", representing a significant symbol of Christian devotion. The artwork features the Sacred Heart of Jesus with the inscri...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Wood, 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

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

Jules Verne's "Hector Servadac" - Second Part, 9th Edition by Ed. Hetzel - 2Y76
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is the second part of Jules Verne's captivating novel "Hector Servadac," 9th edition, published by Ed. Hetzel. The book is in good condition, with a slightly worn cover and spin...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Charming Vintage Enameled Vase with Twisted Rim - Multicolored Ceramic - 2Y144
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming vintage enameled vase is a delightful decorative piece, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any space. The vase features a unique twisted rim and is crafted from ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic

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 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 20th-Century Enameled Porcelain Pitcher with Grape & Vine Leaf - 2Y156
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming vintage 20th-century porcelain pitcher features a beautifully enameled design of grapes and vine leaves. The delicate detailing on the vibrant grape clusters and leaves...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Porcelain

Jules Verne's "Hector Servadac" - First Part, 9th Edition by Ed. Hetzel - 2Y74
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is the first part of Jules Verne's adventure novel "Hector Servadac," 9th edition, published by Ed. Hetzel. The book is in fair condition, with a slightly worn cover and spine. ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Paper

Vintage Military Film with Metal Box "ECPA" - Se Poster Se Déplacer - 2Y206
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare piece of militaria history features a vintage military training film housed in its original metal box from the Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des Armées ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Antiquities

Materials

Metal

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 Blue Floral Faience Funeral Urn - Macabo Design, 20th Century - 2Y20
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This elegant funeral urn crafted from faience features a delicate blue floral design, exemplifying classic 20th-century French artistry. The urn, marked with "Macabo" and "Melchia Ma...
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.

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