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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

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

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

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

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Brass

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

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 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

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 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 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

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

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

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

Elegant Barometer and Thermometer with Copper Bas-Relief of a Woman - 2Y64
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your décor with this stunning barometer and thermometer featuring a detailed copper bas-relief of a woman. Combining functionality with art, ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Copper

Vintage Film with Box "ECPA" – "Combat de Rue" (Program No. 1126) - 2Y204
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare piece of militaria features a vintage film titled "Combat de Rue" from the "Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des Armées" (ECPA). Complete with its original...
Category

20th Century French Empire 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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Bronze

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 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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

Charming Reproduction of a Painting by Maurice Vlaminck - Fauvism - 2Y83
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming reproduction captures the vibrant and expressive style of Maurice Vlaminck, a prominent figure in the Fauvism movement. The piece depicts a stranded boat in bold colors...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Canvas

Pair of Large French Planters
Located in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Pair of large French planters. Origin France, circa 1900. Attributed roun. Excellent condition. Material: porcelain. No restorations In 1644, Nico...
Category

Early 1900s French Antique Empire Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

Pair of Large French Planters
Pair of Large French Planters
$1,520 Sale Price
20% Off
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

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

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

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

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 Folk Art

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 Folk Art

Materials

Metal

Hammered Copper Bas-Relief of Poseidon's Head – Exquisite Detail - 2Y59
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This finely detailed hammered copper bas-relief depicts the majestic head of Poseidon, showcasing the craftsmanship of this stunning piece. The intricate detailing highlights the pow...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Copper

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Paper

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 Folk Art

Materials

Wood

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Terracotta

19th Century Pewter Plate with Handle – "Les étains de la tour" - 2Y225
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Pre-owned Comments: Good condition for its age. Shows signs of use with scratches throughout and some oxidation. Needs polishing. Please refer to the photos for more detai...
Category

1820s French Antique Empire Folk Art

Materials

Pewter

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 Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Book in French: En Famille by Victor Coupin - 2Y97
Located in Bordeaux, FR
En Famille by Victor Coupin is a literary work exploring family dynamics and relationships. The book reflects Coupin's insights into familial themes and societal norms of its time. ...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

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

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

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

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

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Paper

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 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

Les Animaux Vivants du Monde: Tome 1 - Mammifères by Charles J. Cornish - 2Y151
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is Tome 1 - Mammifères of Les Animaux Vivants du Monde, authored by Charles J. Cornish and published by Ernest Flammarion. The book, containing 384 pages, is in fair condition, ...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

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 Folk Art

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 Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Paper

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

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.

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