Neoclassical design emerged in Europe in the 1750s, as the Age of Enlightenment reached full flower. Neoclassical furniture took its cues from the styles of ancient Rome and Athens: symmetrical, ordered, dignified forms with such details as tapered and fluted chair and table legs, backrest finials and scrolled arms.
Over a period of some 20 years, first in France and later in Britain, neoclassical design — also known as Louis XVI, or Louis Seize — would supersede the lithe and curvaceous Rococo or Louis XV style.
The first half of the 18th century had seen a rebirth of interest in classical antiquity. The "Grand Tour" of Europe, codified as a part of the proper education of a patrician gentleman, included an extended visit to Rome. Some ventured further, to sketch the ruins of ancient Greece. These drawings and others — particularly those derived from the surprising and rich archaeological discoveries in the 1730s and ’40s at the sites of the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum — caused great excitement among intellectuals and aesthetes alike.
Neoclassical furniture is meant to reflect both grace and power. The overall appearance of neoclassical chairs, tables and cabinetry is strong and rectilinear. These pieces are, in effect, classical architecture in miniature: chair and table legs are shaped like columns; cabinets are constructed with elements that mirror friezes and pediments.
Yet neoclassicism is enlivened by gilt and silver leaf, marquetry, and carved and applied ornamental motifs based on Greek and Roman sculpture: acanthus leaves, garlands, laurel wreaths, sheaves of arrow, medallions and chair splats are carved in the shapes of lyres and urns. 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.
As you can see from the furniture on these pages, there is a bit of whimsy in such stately pieces — a touch of lightness that will always keep neoclassicism fresh.
Find antique neoclassical furniture today on 1stDibs.
Club Chair with Loose Back Cushion and Hand Rolled Seat and Wood Turned Legs
Located in Brooklyn, NY
The Gladys club chair is a deco Classic beauty with loose back cushion made of feather and down and square back and arms with clean seams - it has a solid seat with hand-stitched rolled mattress edges...
Brass
Twentieth Century custom mahogany and faux alligator bench
Located in Winnetka, IL
A handsome custom mahogany bench reupholstered with rich navy blue faux alligator leather ;having cross stretchers and silver nail head trim . Perfect for the end of the bed or pull ...
Leather, Mahogany
$2,880Sale Price / set|20% Off
Four Edward Wormley Precedent by Drexel Dining Chairs 239-4 8 Available
Located in Pasadena, TX
Edward Wormley designed for Precedent Side Chairs series 239-4 in 1947, neoclassical area. Set of 4 dining chairs, solid wood construction, natural finish. 8 available
Wood
Vintage Kitchen Farmhouse Rustic Low Stool Painted White Distressed
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Vintage kitchen farmhouse low stool painted white distressed.
Wood
$888Sale Price|20% Off
Elegant Antique Bamboo Armchair Brighton Style
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Vintage Bamboo armchair for coastal decor in Brighton Pavillion Style.
Bamboo
$2,402 / item
Carlotta Ottoman, Artichoke
Located in Isleworth, GB
Our Carlotta ottoman is part of Pome by Ceraudo, our first collection designed in-house. Carlotta is a great alternative to the classic coffee table but will be equally at home at t...
Cotton
$2,755 / item
Classic Tufted Love Seat
Located in Westwood, NJ
A Classic tufted two-seat sofa with a bicast bonded chocolate-colored vintage style leather upholstery, with a tufted cushion backrest, and sides with t...
Faux Leather, Wood
$2,859 / item
Sofia Armchair, Limoncello
Located in Isleworth, GB
Designed in a classic silhouette, the Sofia is complimented with an overstuffed seat cushion and an inviting, wide shape. Sofia is as comfortable as she is elegant, supported by tap...
Cotton, Upholstery
$3,616Sale Price / set|20% Off
Set of Four Neoclassical Style Brass & Red Velvet Chairs in Maison Jansen Style
Located in Marcq-en-Barœul, Hauts-de-France
This nice and rare set of 4 neoclassical style chairs is made of brass and red velvet. This is a French work, in the style of famous designer Maison Jansen. Circa 1940.
Brass
Vintage Conant Ball Low Back Bow Back Maple Windsor Spindle Chair
By Conant Ball
Located in Germantown, MD
1970s Conant Ball low back windsor chairs. Solid maple wood construction. Excellent condition. Low back and bow back with spindles. Measuremen...
Maple
Italian Empire Neoclassical Eagle Settee
Located in New York, NY
Italian Empire Neoclassical Eagle Settee. Marc Jacobs silk floral upholstered painted and parcel-gilt carved settee/sofa with finely carved eagle arm term...
Silk, Wood
$1,985 / item
Pair of Chiara Dining Chairs, Forest
Located in Isleworth, GB
The Chiara dining chair is part of Pome by Ceraudo, our first collection designed in-house. Chiara is a lacquered wood dining chair with a natural woven cane seat and would suit ant...
Wood, Lacquer
$620Sale Price|20% Off
Early 19th Century Original Surface Child's Chair
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This amazing untouched surface is to beat the band. It was found in New England & the chair is in great condition and has wonderful form. It has been well love and used.The wear is...
Pine
$984Sale Price|29% Off
1970's Neoclassical style Occasional/ Accent/ Side Chair By John Widdicomb
Located in Opa Locka, FL
Very High Quality Arm Chair by John Widdicomb. Front legs have brass wheels. Undulating Textile. Light peach striped fabric. Beautiful quality Chair.
Wood
Set of 2 Lounge Chairs, After T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings for Peterson Studios, 1960s
Located in Deland, FL
Introducing an ultra-stylish set of oversized, neoclassical revival lounge chairs crafted in the manner of T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings' iconic Casa Encantada Lounge Chair for Peterson Stu...
Fabric, Walnut
$3,432 / set
Classic French Dining Chairs in Cherry Finish
Located in Westwood, NJ
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this chair features a sophisticated sunbleached Cherry wood finish and graceful front turned, tapered and fluted legs, adding a touch of ...
Wood
Custom Made Neoclassical Style Metal Bench or Coffee Table
Located in Sheffield, MA
This neoclassical style metal bench or stool with two curves and stretcher in between can be used for various seating purposes or at the foot of a bed. The base topped with a piece o...
Iron
$3,473 / item
Sofia Armchair, Prussian
Located in Isleworth, GB
Designed in a classic silhouette, the Sofia's magnificent shape is complimented with an overstuffed seat cushion and an inviting, wide shape. Sofia is as comfortable as she is elega...
Linen
19th Century Neoclassical Style Polychrome Painted Settee, Italy
Located in Atlanta, GA
A Neoclassical Style19th Century Italian polychrome painted settee with sphinx carving on back-splat, cane seat with a custom cushion.
Upholstery, Paint
$2,859 / item
Sofia Armchair, Pavlova
Located in Isleworth, GB
Designed in a classic silhouette, the Sofia is complimented with an overstuffed seat cushion and an inviting, wide shape. Sofia is as comfortable as she is elegant, supported by tap...
Cotton, Upholstery
Wrought Iron Turquoise Lounge Chair with White Fabric
Located in Miami, FL
Wrought Iron Turquoise Lounge Chair with White Cream Fabric
Wrought Iron
Panarea Armchair in Mare, Blue & Taupe Upholstery
Located in Isleworth, GB
Bring the vintage glamour of a sun-drenched Southern Italian beach club straight to your terrace. Engineered with sleek, architectural lines and striking geometric ball-finial accent...
Iron
Panarea Armchair in Mare, White & Taupe Upholstery
Located in Isleworth, GB
Bring the vintage glamour of a sun-drenched Southern Italian beach club straight to your terrace. Engineered with sleek, architectural lines and striking geometric ball-finial accent...
Iron
Art Deco Lisboa Loveseat, Blue Velvet Gold Leaf, Handmade Portugal Greenapple
By GF Modern, Greenapple
Located in Lisboa, PT
Art Deco Lisboa Loveseat, Modern Collection, Handcrafted in Portugal - Europe by GF Modern. The Lisboa loveseat captures the essence of understated elegance with its graceful lines and inviting form. Designed for comfort without compromising on style, it brings a relaxed sophistication to any interior. Perfectly balancing classic charm and contemporary appeal, the Lisboa loveseat adds warmth and refinement to any living space. Designed by Rute Martins, Greenapple's Creative Director. The Lisboa Loveseat can be customized in terms of dimensions, materials and finishes. For U.S. clients, we can handle all customs clearance, cover duties, and offer white-glove service as well upon request. Lisboa Loveseat Materials Codes FI001 Gold leaf; high-gloss finish M101460 Dark blue velvet...
Gold Leaf
Classic Swivel Armchair in Solid Wood and Green Faux Leather - Elegant Style
By Mice di rugiano domenico e c. s.n.c.
Located in Cantù, IT
Elegant classic-style swivel armchair with finely crafted solid wood frame and upholstered seat covered in antique-effect green faux leather. A perfect mix of traditional charm and m...
Leather, Wood
Panarea Armchair in Gelato, Red & White Upholstery
Located in Isleworth, GB
Bring the vintage glamour of a sun-drenched Southern Italian beach club straight to your terrace. Engineered with sleek, architectural lines and striking geometric ball-finial accent...
Iron
Panarea Armchair in Isola, Taupe & Cream Upholstery
Located in Isleworth, GB
Bring the vintage glamour of a sun-drenched Southern Italian beach club straight to your terrace. Engineered with sleek, architectural lines and striking geometric ball-finial accent...
Iron
Panarea Armchair in Mare, Taupe & White Upholstery
Located in Isleworth, GB
Bring the vintage glamour of the mid-century Italian Riviera straight to your terrace. Engineered with sleek, architectural lines and striking geometric ball-finial accents, the Pana...
Iron
Panarea Armchair in Mare, Blue & White Upholstery
Located in Isleworth, GB
Bring the vintage glamour of a sun-drenched Southern Italian beach club straight to your terrace. Engineered with sleek, architectural lines and striking geometric ball-finial accent...
Iron
Panarea Armchair in Gelato, Navy & Cream Upholstery
Located in Isleworth, GB
Bring the vintage glamour of a sun-drenched Southern Italian beach club straight to your terrace. Engineered with sleek, architectural lines and striking geometric ball-finial accent...
Iron
$2,859 / item
Sofia Armchair, Cannoli
Located in Isleworth, GB
Designed in a classic silhouette, the Sofia is complimented with an overstuffed seat cushion and an inviting, wide shape. Sofia is as comfortable as she is elegant, supported by tap...
Cotton, Upholstery
1970s Italian Neo-Classical Style Silver Leaf Bergere Chairs, a Pair
Located in Kennesaw, GA
This is a chic pair of Italian neo-classical style silver leaf arm chairs. The cushions are in a neutral flax colored linen and are in very good condition, There are two pairs availa...
Linen, Poplar
Set of Ten Neoclassical Armchairs in Gilded Wood, Italy, 19th century
Located in Milano, IT
A set of ten Italian neoclassical armchairs dating from the third quarter of the 19th century, featuring a carved and gilded wooden frame. The rounded backrest features a frame decor...
Fabric, Giltwood
Panarea Armchair in Isola, Green & Cream Striped Upholstery
Located in Isleworth, GB
Bring the vintage glamour of a sun-drenched Southern Italian beach club straight to your terrace. Engineered with sleek, architectural lines and striking geometric ball-finial accent...
Iron
Oscar de la Renta Home Century Furniture Italian Neoclassical Lounge Arm Chair
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Please message us with your zip code to request a more reasonable domestic U.S. shipping quote. Oscar de la Renta Home Century Furniture Italian Neoclassical Style Armchair. Circa L...
Wood
Pair of Ferguson Copeland Tortoise & Silver Leaf Upholstered Brighton Armchairs
Located in Germantown, MD
Pair of Ferguson Copeland Tortoise and Silver Leaf Upholstered Brighton Armchairs. Feature a Bent Rattan frame with leather strap joints, brown pain...
Metal
John Widdicomb Klismos Saber Leg Side Chair Burl Regency Neoclassical 1960s
Located in Forest Grove, PA
An early variant of the JW-1773 Klismos side chair from the 1960s. This chair was purchased with a T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings Bullet desk from a retired representative of The Widdicomb F...
Fabric, Burl
$3,036 / item
Sofia Armchair, Olive
Located in Isleworth, GB
Designed in a classic silhouette, the Sofia's magnificent shape is complimented with an overstuffed seat cushion and an inviting, wide shape. Sofia is as comfortable as she is elega...
Linen
Denim Leather Ottoman Footstool with Cabriole Legs
Located in New York, NY
Tufted leather ottoman with brass tack trim and carved cabriole, ball and claw foot legs. Manufactured by the "Classic Leather" furniture company. Clean, original, ready to use condi...
Leather, Wood
$880 / item
Aurora Footstool, Oxford Blue
Located in Isleworth, GB
The Aurora footstool is part of Pome by Ceraudo, our first collection designed in-house. Aurora is an upholstered footstool, perfect for extra seating without taking up precious spa...
Linen
$2,577 / item
American West Leather Armchair
By Sarreid Ltd.
Located in Westwood, NJ
Upholstered with vintage style Havana brown leather. This handsome chair has been given some angles that you will enjoy. The seat back almost wants to be a wing but is gently angled ...
Leather
Neoclassical Style 1850s Gray Painted and Carved Armchairs with Guilloches, Pair
Located in Atlanta, GA
A pair of Swedish Neoclassical style wooden armchairs from circa 1850 with carved guilloche friezes, Classic light gray painted finish and carved finials. These exquisite Swedish Neo...
Wood
Vintage Regency Tapestry Lounge Chair
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This distinguished armchair beautifully captures the grace and romantic ornamentation of the French Provincial style. Featuring an elegantly carved wooden frame, likely walnut or fru...
Brass
$3,680Sale Price|20% Off
German Austrian Neoclassical Eagle Form Armchair
Located in Huntington, NY
German Austrian neoclassical eagle form armchair, circa 1860.
Gold, Brass
Antique King and Queen Carved Wood Plaid Chairs, a Pair 1900s
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
A beautiful pair of antique carved wood chairs with rolled arms and plaid upholstered seats. This set features carved wood bases with stylize...
Fabric, Wood
$9,800 / set
Pair of Neoclassical Side Chairs
Located in New York, NY
Pair of neoclassical side chairs. Mahogany with carved details.
Mahogany
1880s Italian Chairs Neoclassic Eclectic Hand Carved Walnut Leather Upholstered
Located in Vigonza, Padua
Stunning original and sturdy 1880s Italian Chairs Eclectic in hand-carved walnut, real antique red leather upholstered. About Italian Style: Neocl...
Leather, Walnut
$1,716Sale Price / set|50% Off
French Mid-19th Century Wooden Chairs, Yellow Linen Upholstery, Pair
Located in Brescia, IT
These fine French Mid-19th Century wooden chairs have an eclectic style and with theirs yellow linen upholstery they can give a touch of brig...
Fabric, Wood
Windsor Style Black Lacquer Georgetown University Armchair
Located in Pasadena, TX
This is a finely crafted Windsor style armchair. It's painted in black lacquer and has Georgetown University branded into the back headrest.
Wood, Lacquer
$8,241Sale Price / set|20% Off
Neoclassical Sigmara Boucle Dining Chairs Set of 6, Handmade By Greenapple
Located in Lisboa, PT
Neoclassical Dining set of 6 Chairs, Modern Collection, Handcrafted in Portugal - Europe by Greenapple. The Sigmara dining chairs are a classic and comfortable piece for any occasio...
Bouclé, Oak, Upholstery
$1,125 / item
Classic Upholstered Counter Stool
Located in Westwood, NJ
This counter stool features a sturdy wooden frame finished in a warm straw wash, providing both durability and a natural, elegant appeal. The seat and backrest are upholstered in Arc...
Wood
Pair of Late 18th Century Italian Carved Walnut Armchairs
Located in Charlottesville, VA
A pair of late 18th C. Italian carved walnut armchairs, the arched crest rails centered by carved flowerheads, with shaped molded arms on serpentine supports, the upholstered backs a...
Brass
$1,739Sale Price|20% Off
Walnut Armchair From the Late 19th Century in Black Leather
Located in Opole, PL
Elegant late 19th-century armchair, circa 1890, crafted from walnut and upholstered in black leather. The chair features a distinctive oval medallion backrest, gracefully shaped open...
Leather, Walnut
Pair of French Neoclassical Painted Louis XVI Side Chairs
Located in Hopewell, NJ
French neoclassical giltwood dining chairs featuring a compound shaped rectangular back, carved foliate crest, ornate painted frame with decorative embellishments, padded back and se...
Upholstery, Wood
French Louis XVI Style Painted Giltwood Window Bench Scroll Arms Black Fabric
Located in Essex, MA
A Louis XVI–Style Scrolled Arm Benches with Modern Geometric Upholstery An elegant and visually striking pair of Louis XVI–style scrolled arm benches, combining classical French form...
Wood, Giltwood
$1,917 / item
Faux Ostrich Leather Ottoman
Located in Westwood, NJ
Bench-made in the USA, this ottoman features deep button tufting and a plush, dotted faux ostrich leather upholstery in metallic ivory. The small self-welt trim and layered brushed n...
Leather, Wood
19th Century Italian Neoclassical Painted and Gilt Bench with New Upholstery
Located in Atlanta, GA
A refined 19th-century Italian bench in the neoclassical taste, featuring a painted and giltwood frame with carved decorative detail and newly upholstered seat. The rectangular seat ...
Fabric, Upholstery, Wood
Set of four armchairs in the Queen Maria style.
Located in Porto, PT
Set of four Queen Maria style armchairs. Portuguese; 20th century, made of mahogany wood; elliptical openwork backs; straw seats. Dimensions: 100x59x43 cm.
Wood
French Neoclassical Talha Real Sofa Jacquard Silver Handmade Portugal Greenapple
By GF Modern, Greenapple
Located in Lisboa, PT
Talha Real Sofa, Neoclassical Collection, Handcrafted in Portugal - Europe by GF Modern. The Talha Real sofa adds a sophisticated and refined touch to any living area. The sofa is u...
Silver Leaf
$380Sale Price|20% Off
Antique American Painted Cane Side Chair, Silk Brocade Cushion, 1900
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Great Antque American Painted Cane side chair with silk brocade tufted cushion. Distressed finish , old repair right side of cane. Structurally sound.
Wood