Empire Folk Art
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Metal
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 Folk Art
Materials
Metal
Vintage Renault 300 Kgs Toy Car by C.I.J - Made in France - 2Y21
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover this charming vintage toy car, a Renault 300 Kgs model by C.I.J, proudly made in France. This collectible piece reflects classic toy craftsmanship and is sold "as is" with i...
Category
20th Century French Empire Folk Art
Materials
Metal
Antique Roman Missal book - Contains Offices for Major Feasts 1790s - 2Y11
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This New Roman Missal is a valuable resource containing the offices for major feasts and the epistles and gospels for all Sundays. Ideal for those seeking a traditional and comprehen...
Category
1790s French Antique Empire Folk Art
Materials
Paper
Late 18th Century Pewter Wine Beaker or Cup, Denmark
By Wiggers
Located in Haddonfield, NJ
Large Danish Pewter beaker or cup for wine or beer, Denmark Circa 1790-1810
The cup is marked with a large W on the base.
Category
Late 18th Century Danish Antique Empire Folk Art
Materials
Pewter
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 Folk Art
Materials
Wood
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Brass, Copper
Jules Verne "Un Capitaine de Quinze Ans" - Second Part, Hetzel Edition - 2Y81
Located in Bordeaux, FR
A classic from Jules Verne, "Un Capitaine de Quinze Ans" (Second Part), published by Hetzel. This vintage edition is in good condition, featuring slight wear on the cover and spine. ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Folk Art
Materials
Paper
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Resin
Fine 19th Century European Gilt Bronze Ormolu Monstrance Reliquary
Located in Forney, TX
A scarce fine quality neoclassical Empire style vasiform gilt bronze ormolu church religious relic altar monstrance reliquary.
Exquisitely hand-crafted in Continental Europe in the second half of the 19th century, most likely French Napoleon III Period (1852-1870), having a fanned cross crest, above winged angel mask, central oval display...
Category
19th Century European Antique Empire Folk Art
Materials
Bronze, Ormolu
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 Folk Art
Materials
Velvet, Wood
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 Folk Art
Materials
Copper
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Metal
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 Folk Art
Materials
Spelter
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Ceramic, Porcelain
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Crystal
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 Folk Art
Materials
Porcelain
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 Folk Art
Materials
Ceramic
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 Folk Art
Materials
Wood
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 Folk Art
Materials
Brass
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 Folk Art
Materials
Paper
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 Folk Art
Materials
Porcelain
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 Folk Art
Materials
Wood, Paper
19th Century Empire Original Oil Painting
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
19th Century Empire Original Oil Painting of 2 women by window
Category
1850s French Antique Empire Folk Art
Materials
Canvas, Paint
French Folk Art Oak and Marble Eagle Figure
Located in Queens, NY
French (19th Cent Napoleonic Era) folk art carved oak life size figure of an eagle with out stretched wings perched on a round globe with a marble base.
Category
19th Century French Antique Empire Folk Art
Materials
Marble
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 Folk Art
Materials
Brass
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 Folk Art
Materials
Marble, Pewter
Jules Verne "L'île mystérieuse" book - 12th Edition, Ed. Hetzel - 2Y78
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is the 12th edition of Jules Verne’s classic novel, L'île mystérieuse (Deuxième Partie), published by Éditions Hetzel. The book is in decent condition, with a cover and spine sh...
Category
20th Century French Empire Folk Art
Materials
Paper
Jules Gourdault's "La Suisse Pittoresque" - Second Edition c. 1882 - 2Y69
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is a second edition of "La Suisse Pittoresque" by Jules Gourdault, published by Librairie Hachette. The book is in fairly good condition, with some wear on the cover, slightly yellowed pages...
Category
1880s French Antique Empire Folk Art
Materials
Paper
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 Folk Art
Materials
Wood
Printing Block Wallpaper Complete Repeat Empire Acanthus Leaf Roundel
Located in BUNGAY, SUFFOLK
Rare woodblock with complete repeat. Of interest to wallpaper collectors or as a conversation piece in the home as a decorative carved wallhanging.
A rare, large 19th Century French wallpaper...
Category
19th Century French Antique Empire Folk Art
Materials
Oak
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 Folk Art
Materials
Porcelain
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 Folk Art
Materials
Metal
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Plastic
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 Folk Art
Materials
Paper
1928 First Communion Souvenir Portrait of Marcelle Girard - Framed - 2Y71
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This framed souvenir portrait commemorates the first communion of Marcelle Girard, which took place at the church of Bonnétable on June 10, 1928. The piece is in its original conditi...
Category
1920s French Vintage Empire Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Opaline Glass
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 Folk Art
Materials
Plastic
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 Folk Art
Materials
Ceramic
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 Folk Art
Materials
Porcelain
Vintage Enamel Pitcher in Blue and Brown Terracotta - 2Y141
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this charming vintage enamel pitcher, crafted from terracotta and adorned in a beautiful blue and brown color schem...
Category
20th Century French Empire Folk Art
Materials
Terracotta
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Canvas
Vintage Corgi Daily Planet Miniature Helicopter - 1:43 Scale - 2Y220
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a piece of nostalgia to your collection with this vintage Corgi Daily Planet miniature helicopter. Crafted with attention to detail, this 1:43 scale non-military helicopter is a ...
Category
20th Century French Empire Folk Art
Materials
Metal
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 Folk Art
Materials
Ceramic
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 Folk Art
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 Folk Art
Materials
Plastic
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 Folk Art
Materials
Clay
Empire folk art for sale on 1stDibs.
Find a broad range of unique Empire folk art for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage folk art created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include folk art, decorative objects, mirrors and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with fabric, canvas and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Empire folk art made in a specific country, there are Europe, France, and North America pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original folk art, popular names associated with this style include and Wiggers. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for folk art differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $316 and tops out at $12,500 while the average work can sell for $3,575.