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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
Vintage Dinky Toys Autocar Chausson Méccano – 15 cm Long - 2Y02
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore a piece of history with this vintage Dinky Toys model, featuring the classic Autocar Chausson by Méccano. Perfect for collectors and vintage toy enthusiasts, this model car showcases the timeless design and craftsmanship that Dinky Toys is renowned for. Details: Type: Vintage Model Car...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Metal

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Charming Oil Painting on Canvas – Village Church Scene - 2Y172
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This beautiful oil painting on canvas captures a serene village church, offering a timeless piece of art perfect for enhancing any space. With its warm tones and fine details, this a...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Canvas

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

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

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'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

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 Folk Art

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 Folk Art

Materials

Faience

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

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Terracotta

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

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 Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

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 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 Folk Art

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 Folk Art

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 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 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 Folk Art

Materials

Metal

Antique 20th Century Venetian-Style Decorative Ceramic Teapot - 2Y142
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Add a touch of elegance to your collection with this exquisite 20th-century Venetian-style teapot. Crafted from crackled ceramic, this teapot features intricate artistry typical of V...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

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 Folk Art

Materials

Faience

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

Lot of 3 Vinyl Records - Emmio Marricane, Juliette Gréco, Joza Vlahovic - 2Y16
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore this diverse collection of 3 vinyl records featuring a range of musical styles from different artists. This set includes works by Emmio Marricane, Juliette Gréco, and Joza Vl...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Plastic

Vintage Straw Marquetry Box with Floral Rose Design – Early 20th Century - 2Y105
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This delightful vintage box, crafted from marquetry straw, features an elegant floral rose design, likely from the early 20th century or even earlier. The intricate craftsmanship sho...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Wood

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

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

Antique book "Retour en Chrétienté" - Collection by J. Servel - 2Y36
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the insightful collection titled "Retour en Chrétienté" by J. Servel, a notable work reflecting on religious themes. Published by Édition du Chalet, this book is an essential...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Vintage Watercolor Drawing by Jacques Courtade, "La Mort Invitée" N72 - 2Y165
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage watercolor drawing by Jacques Courtade, titled "La Mort Invitée," is an evocative piece that captures the artist's unique style and depth. Numbered 72, this artwork is a...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

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 Gravure "La Charette" by M. Lallane after Troyon, Circa 1860-1880, 2Y113
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This exquisite gravure, titled "La Charette," was created by the skilled artist M. Lallane after the renowned painter Troyon, dating back to the late 19th century (circa 1860-1880). ...
Category

1860s French Antique Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Lot of 6 Vintage 45 RPM Vinyl Records - Break Machine, Apache, A-Ha - 2Y10
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Expand your collection with this lot of 6 vintage 45 RPM vinyl records, featuring a diverse selection of artists and hits. Each record offers a unique s...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Plastic

Rare Military Collection – Vintage Film with Box "ECPA" - 2Y201
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This rare militaria piece features a vintage film titled "Les Bruits du Champ de Bataille" from the "Établissement Cinématographique et Photographique des...
Category

20th Century French 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

Antique Vintage Wall Art Signed Vallauris "A. Camgo" - 2Y230
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Good Comments: This vintage wall piece is in good condition, though the signature is slightly faded, and there are minor paint chips. Please refer to the photos for detailed condition. Artist: A. Camgo (Signature slightly faded) Material: Ceramic Dimensions: Height: 15 cm (5.91 inches) Length: 10.5 cm (4.13 inches) Thickness: 6.5 cm (2.56 inches) Weight: 275 gr (0.61 lbs) This vintage ceramic...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

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 Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

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

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

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 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

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 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 Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Antique Book by Ch. Deslys - "Les Récits de la Grève" 5th Edition, 2Y123
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Explore the compelling narratives of historical struggles with this antique book by Ch. Deslys, titled "Les Récits de la Grève." Published by Librairie Ch. Delagrave, this 5th editio...
Category

20th Century French Empire 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 Book by Paul Hervieu – "L'Armature" - 2Y224
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Pre-owned Comments: In good condition. Please refer to the photos for more details. Author: Paul Hervieu Title: "L'Armature" Language: French Era: Early 20th Century Dimensions: Height: 24.5 cm (9.65 inches) Length: 17.5 cm (6.89 inches) Thickness: 1 cm (0.39 inches) Weight: 436 grams (0.96 lbs) This early 20th-century book by Paul Hervieu, titled "L'Armature," is a literary piece reflecting the nuanced narratives of its time. It remains in good condition, with some signs of age, making it a valuable addition for collectors of vintage French literature.
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

La Folle Aventure by André Lichtenberger, 1913 Edition - 2Y150
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This is an original 1913 edition of La Folle Aventure by André Lichtenberger, featuring illustrations by Robert Kastor as part of the Lafitte collection. The book has 122 pages and i...
Category

1910s French Vintage Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Antique Book by Jules Verne - "L'Île Mystérieuse" Part 1, 2Y124
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Dive into the adventurous world of Jules Verne with this antique edition of "L'Île Mystérieuse" (Part 1). This captivating novel is a treasure for collectors and fans of classic lite...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

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 Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

Les Grands Thèmes de l'Art: L'Évangile Illustré - Editions Des Horizons - 2Y176
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Discover the beauty and depth of religious art with this captivating two-volume set, Les Grands Thèmes de l'Art: L'Évangile Illustré, published by Des Horizons de France. These illus...
Category

Early 20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Vintage Wall-Mounted Porcelain Decorative Plate – "Christmas Eve", 2Y115
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This charming vintage wall-mounted decorative plate captures the warmth and tradition of Christmas Eve in the picturesque village of Greetsiel, Germany. Issued in 1979 as part of a l...
Category

1970s French Vintage Empire Folk Art

Materials

Porcelain

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

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

Vintage 1940s Wooden Magazine Rack – Classic Storage for Newspapers - 2Y196
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage wooden magazine rack from the 1940s is a stylish and functional addition to your home or office. Designed to hold newspapers,...
Category

1940s French Vintage Empire Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Antique 20th Century Book by Paul Bourget "André Cornélis" - Paris - 2Y237
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Condition: Fair Comments: The book is in good condition. Please see the photos for more details. Author: Paul Bourget Title: "André Cornélis" Publisher: Arthème Fayard, Paris Modern-...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Set of 3 Vintage Japanese Magnets - 2Y32
Located in Bordeaux, FR
Enhance your collection with this set of 3 vintage Japanese magnets. Each magnet features vibrant and detailed designs, showcasing the charm of classic Japanese aesthetics. These mag...
Category

20th Century French Empire Folk Art

Materials

Magnets

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 Folk Art

Materials

Faience

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 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 60's Enamel Metal Hanging Lamp – Retro Suspension Light - 2Y05
Located in Bordeaux, FR
This vintage 60's enamel metal hanging lamp is a charming piece from the mid-20th century. With its classic design and durable materials, it adds a touch of retro style to any interi...
Category

1940s French Vintage Empire Folk Art

Materials

Metal

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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