Skip to main content

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.

to
185
188
6
193
2
1,998
1,062
674
296
207
162
85
85
77
55
40
37
31
23
20
7
2
17
174
2
18
16
13
3
2
5
6
3
2
5
4
2
67
48
41
16
13
193
189
2
2
1
195
195
195
1
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

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

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

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 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

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

Late 18th Century Pewter Wine Beaker or Cup, Denmark
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

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 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

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

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

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Metal

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Paper

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

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

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Pewter

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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 Folk Art

Materials

Paper

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

1970s French Vintage Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Vintage 1944 Large Signed and Numbered Lithograph – Landscape by Leonard - 2Y175
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite vintage lithograph, dating back to 1944, captures a serene landscape scene, beautifully rendered and signed by the artist, Leonard (though the exact name is uncertain). The piece is also numbered, adding to its uniqueness and value as a collectible item. This lithograph is a testament to mid-20th-century artistry, making it an ideal addition to any collection of vintage art...
Category

1940s French Vintage Empire Folk Art

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 Folk Art

Materials

Plastic

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Bronze

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 Folk Art

Materials

Aluminum

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Metal

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 Folk Art

Materials

Brass

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 Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

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 Folk Art

Materials

Metal

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

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

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 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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Faience

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

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

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 Folk Art

Materials

Stoneware

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

19th Century German Antique Empire Folk Art

Materials

Iron

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Crystal

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 Folk Art

Materials

Paper

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 Folk Art

Materials

Plaster

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 Folk Art

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 Folk Art

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 Folk Art

Materials

Metal

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 Folk Art

Materials

Alabaster, Brass

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 Folk Art

Materials

Alabaster, Brass

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.

Recently Viewed

View All