French Empire
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Pair of Reproduction Empire Revival Gueridon Tables
$2,500.0027.25"H x 20"W x 20"D
Dimensions: 27 ¼” H x 20” W x 20” D
A small yet dramatic pair of French Empire inspired reproduction side tables. Nero Marquina black marble tops are ringed with bronze bezels, supported on blackened steel frames, each with three legs joined by crossed stretchers for a bold look from every angle. Please note the marble does have some etched patina in the surfaces–see the detailed images. Sold as a pair.
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French 19th Century Empire Marble & Gilt Bronze Chandelier
$3,200.0032"H x 18.75"W x 16.50"D
Dimensions: 32” H x 18 ¾” W x 16 ½” D
A French Empire chandelier, unique for being carved from a solid block of green marble, decorated with gilt bronze appliqués and finials on every surface to project the brazen grandeur of the period. Three support rods descend from a round canopy to suspend the triangular piece of marble that branches into two bronze candle arms on each corner rising to faux candle covers. Look closely and one can see that among the mythical and Neoclassical references the faces of satyrs are incorporated into the solid bronze arms. Abundant foliate references include laurel wreaths that rise from the top plane of the marble, with a linear anthemion design just below on the flat sides, continuing as artichoke finials suspended from the underside. Please note this impressive fixture has been professionally cleaned and rewired to US electrical standards using UL-listed parts and is ready to be installed in your interior.
Canopy: 6” diameter
Chain and wire: 36” -
French 19th Century Empire Commode
$4,200.0034"H x 49.88"W x 21.63"D
Dimensions: 34” H x 49 ⅞” W x 21 ⅝” D
A robust French Empire walnut commode from the 19th century. The top planks are smooth, arranged in a square formation to frame the wide center plank that expresses its natural grain patterns with dark patina. The overhanging frieze is a hidden drawer, free of hardware, using a groove carved into the bottom edge to slide open. Making up the body of the piece are three large drawers with working locks (three keys included) using period bronze hardware of ornate motifs. Note that the two upper drawers have matching ring pulls however the bottom drawer was switched to knobs at some point in time. The drawer fronts highlight the subtle grain patterns walnut is prized for that give the piece a sense of movement and warm color blending with the patina from daily use. Columnar pilasters on each side are emphasized with brass capitals and bases in Neoclassical motifs rising from thick, cylindrical feet. Cleaned and polished with a French paste wax, ready for your interior. Make sure to view the detailed images for a closer look.
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French 19th Century Empire Trumeau Mirror
$6,200.0067"H x 42"W x 4"D
Dimensions: 67” H x 42” W x 4” D
A large 19th century French Empire trumeau mirror that is bold yet refined, using Neoclassical decorative elements to project a respect for history and luxury. Across the frieze along the top, over the weathered “French gray” painted wood frame, are a series of symbolic appliqués in gilded finish: lyres on the outer edges flank a linear acanthus-anthemion design that emanates from a central medallion occupied by the face of a Greco-Roman figure. Crowing the gilded pilasters to the left and right of the mirror plate/s are laurel wreath emblems to further the references to antiquity. The original mirror plates (stacked one on top of the other) remain quite clear to use this piece over a mantel or vanity, having developed a few areas of dark foxing concentrated to the edges and corners. The original mercury mirror glass shimmers with a layer of crystals beginning to accumulate on the bottom edge. Note that the finishes of this striking mirror have been retouched to maintain their color. Please view the detailed images to see more, and the current condition.
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French 19th Century Empire Walnut Bedside Table
Original price was: $700.00.$550.00Current price is: $550.00.30.75"H x 16"W x 13.25"D
Dimensions: 30 ¾” H x 16” W x 13 ¼” D
French 19th century petite bedside table with classic Empire styling that would function equally well in a powder room for unexpected, and sophisticated storage. Below the modest plank top is an overhanging frieze drawer without hardware, supported on the sides by architecturally inspired columns finished with brass capitals and bases. Concealed by a striking bookmatched door that features the expressive grain patterns of the walnut, the cabinet interior is fitted with two small shelves to organize the contents. Cleaned and polished with a French paste wax, this handsome side table is ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images to see more.
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French 19th Century Velvet Armchair with Fringe
$2,500.0037.50"H x 31"W x 34"D
Dimensions: 37 ½” H x 31” W x 34” D
A 19th century French Napoleon III style armchair with a tall back at a slight recline in an angular profile that is at once restrained and welcoming. This example is upholstered in a regal shade of sky blue (in the Louis XVI and Gustavian tastes) wrapping the squared back and gently rolled arms. Matching bullion fringe with faint braids of gold skirting the floor is a glamorous touch to dress up any seating area, creating a cozy and inviting spot to read or relax in an air of French luxury & sophistication. Internal stuffing remains a comfortable firmness, however there are some areas of wear to the fabric. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition.
Seat height: 16”
Arm height: 22 ¾”
Seat depth: 21 ¼” -
Italian Pair of 19th Century Giltwood Appliqués
$8,400.0033.25"H x 15"W x 4.50"D
Dimensions: 33 ¼” H x 15” W x 4 ½” D
A stunning pair of Italian 19th century giltwood wall appliqués–decorative elements to enhance the architectural program–likely obtained from a church or cathedral as they are flat and unfinished on the backs, intended to be viewed from front. The Eternal Flame urn forms are handcarved with stunning Neoclassical motifs and textures that not only conveys the power of the church but also the lasting influence of the Empire shaped by Napoleon’s vision. At the top of each urn is a textured, waving flame that would have been illuminated by candlelight to magnify its aura. Pairs of eagle heads–iconic symbols of the period–are mounted on each side of the urn’s shoulder with an amber glass rosette embedded in between them. Festooned swags emphasize the curvature and fullness of the urn which is revisited again where the form tapers toward the base as fluted carvings mixed with additional floral-foliate references unifying the exuberance of the design. Block feet painted the color of red bole elevate the urns to stabilize them on a table or mantel. Note that evidence of wax is still visible on the backsides, confirming their historic age. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition. Sold as a pair.
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French 19th Century Empire Bronze Table Lamp
$2,200.0037.13"H x 18.25"W x 10.50"D
Dimensions: 37 ⅛” H x 18 ¼” W x 10 ½” D
French 19th century Empire style cast bronze table lamp with new linen shade, converted from gas to electric. This substantial Neoclassical fixture has a Greco-Roman female figure for a base, elevating a large urn above her head from which the socket rises, diffusing the light under a rectangular linen shade. The pedestal is ebonized wood with faint craquelure and some patina. As a single lamp, this would work well in a variety of interiors and rooms such as for a desk lamp or on a side table to appreciate the sculptural quality of the bronze. Look closely and one can still observe a cross-hatched texture imparted by the hand of the artist. Professionally cleaned and rewired adding a new black fabric cord with in-line switch and white linen shade to diffuse the light from a standard-base bulb. Note the switch just below the socket as well. Please view the detailed images to see more.
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French 20th Century Empire Style Single Table Lamp
$2,200.0029"H x 16.75"W x 16.75"D
Dimensions: 29” H x 16 ¾” W x 16 ¾” D
French vintage 20th century Empire style tole (lacquered metal) and parcel gilt bronze table lamp with new linen shade. This substantial Neoclassical fixture has an attractive baluster silhouette of deep green satin finish on the column with gilt bronze accents appearing as collars of coin-edge pattern and one ring around the octagonal base in acanthus motif. As a single lamp, this would work well in a variety of interiors and rooms such as for a desk lamp or on a side table. Professionally cleaned and rewired adding a new black fabric cord white linen shade to diffuse the light from a standard-base bulb. Note the switch is just below the socket. Please view the detailed images to see more.
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French 19th Century Painted Empire Commode
$5,200.0034.13"H x 51.25"W x 23.50"D
Dimensions: 34 ⅛” H x 51 ¼” W x 23 ½” D
A French Empire commode from the 19th century, updated more recently with paint in layered & scraped faux finish that wouldn’t look out of place with Gustavian style furnishings. The top is a slab of Saint Anne marble flecked with smoky wisps of gray. Note that there are the expected chips to the edges of the stone, see the image gallery for more details. In the case below is an overhanging frieze drawer, without hardware, using a pair of grooves carved into the bottom edge to slide open. Making up the body of the piece are three large drawers with textured brass knobs and keyholes, however no key is present. The exterior surfaces have artistic layers of light “French gray” over blush-pink that give the piece a sense of movement and dynamic color blending with the patina from daily use. Columnar pilasters on each side are emphasized with ebonized finish (coordinating with the stone top) accented with brass capitals and bases in Neoclassical motifs rising from thick cylindrical feet. Cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to preserve the finish, ready for your interior. Make sure to view the detailed images for a closer look.
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French 19th Century Gold Empire Mirror
$5,200.0059.50"H x 46.13"W x 2.50"D
Dimensions: 59 ½” H x 46 ⅛” W x 2 ½” D
This French Empire mirror (c. 1800) is symmetrical to hang in either direction, exhibiting low-relief floral decorations that leave ample space for the gilt molding to reveal its red bole underneath the gold–adding warmth and texture to the rectilinear design. The molding is largely plain and smooth, with rococo theme garlands of botanical and scallop shell motif stationed at the corners and midpoints along the perimeter. The original mirror plate reflects a fine dusting of crystals among the foxing, which draws the viewer in for a closer look. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition.
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French 19th Century Empire Mantel Mirror
$4,995.0065.50"H x 39.25"W x 2.50"D
Dimensions: 65 ½” H x 39 ¼” W x 2 ½” D
This French Empire mantle mirror (c. 1800) exhibits restrained surface decoration concentrated to intermittent, low-relief floral motifs that leave ample space for the gilt molding to reveal its red bole underneath the gold, adding warmth and texture to the rectilinear design. The molding is largely plain and smooth, with garlands of botanical theme stationed at the corners and midpoints along the perimeter. The original mirror plates (stacked one on top of the other) reflect a fine dusting of crystals among the foxing. Please view the detailed images to see more, and the current condition.
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French 19th Century Painted Empire Commode
$5,400.0037.63"H x 51.50"W x 25.63"D
Dimensions: 37 ⅝” H x 51 ½” W x 25 ⅝” D
A French Empire walnut commode from the 19th century, updated more recently with blue paint in layered & scraped faux finish that wouldn’t look out of place with Gustavian style furnishings. The top is a slab of dark, nearly black marble flecked with tiny inclusions of fossils like constellations in the night sky. Note that there are multiple worn chips to the edges of the stone, see the image gallery for more details. In the case below is an overhanging frieze drawer, without hardware, using a pair of grooves carved into the bottom edge to slide open. Making up the body of the piece are three large drawers with textured brass knobs and shield escutcheons, however no key is present. The exterior surfaces have unique, painterly layers of light gray over pale blue that give the piece a sense of movement and dynamic color blending with the patina from daily use. Columnar pilasters on each side are emphasized with ebonized finish (coordinating with the stone top) accented with brass capitals and bases in Neoclassical motifs rising from thick, block feet. Cleaned and polished and ready for your interior. Make sure to view the detailed images for a closer look.
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French 19th Century Mahogany Pair of Empire Arm Chairs
$3,200.0038.75"H x 26"W x 27"D
Dimensions: 38 ¾” H x 26” W x 27” D
This stunning pair of French Empire style mahogany barrel (or tub) armchairs are 19th century, reflecting the period’s extravagance and passion for noble materials in every aspect of the domestic interior. Made from richly figured mahogany wood framing the upholstery both inside and out, the armchairs feature deep curves at the handrail with subtle pinstripe inlay, sloping down to padded arms resting on bronze caryatid busts at the arm terminals. The front legs are given an extra touch of grandeur with lion paws at the floor and short saber legs at the rear. The original stuffing of natural fibers (likely horsehair) is intact however the current upholstery fabric has areas of discoloration and the manchette arms are worn through. Nevertheless, these French Empire lounge chairs exemplify luxury and timeless design sense that continues to inspire in today’s interiors. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition. Sold as a pair.
Arm height: 28 ½” H
Seat height: 20” H
Seat depth: 18”d -
French Pair of Brass Empire Style Candlesticks
$1,100.0011"H x 5"W x 5"D
Dimensions: 11” H x 5” W x 5” D
French 19th century brass candlesticks, Empire in taste, like miniature columns to add instant glamor to a mantel or table. Typical of the French Empire period, inspiration from ancient Egypt is evident as the foliate motifs fanning out around the (bulbous) capital, bases and pedestal to fascinate from every angle. Note that the bobeches are removable for cleaning out the wax. Please view the detailed images to see the current condition as there are some spots of patina but otherwise their sheen is undiminished by time. Sold as a pair.
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French Early 19th Century Fruitwood Empire Bibliotheque
$6,500.0087.25"H x 54.50"W x 24"D
Dimensions: 87 ¼” H x 54 ½” W x 24” D
A 19th century French Empire style bibliothèque or display cabinet, handcrafted using solid fruitwood and two glass-front doors accented with brass. The clean, straight lines allow this handsome design to fit any number of traditional and transitional decorating tastes–the perfect complement to showcase treasured books, heirlooms, or trophies in an office or library. Behind the locking doors–which have retained their original glass panes–are three interior shelves (ranging in depth from 16 ¼-17 ⅜”) adjustable on sawtooth brackets to easily reconfigure as needed, raising or lowering within a few inches. Other unique features of the design are the ornate escutcheons with scrolling, anthemion motif and the coordinating brass applications over the capital and base of the half-round columns flanking the doors. This outstanding case piece has been cleaned and polished with a French paste wax to maintain the rich grain pattern and historic patina, ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images to see more.
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French 19th Century Walnut Empire Commode
$3,200.0037"H x 49.25"W x 21.88"D
Dimensions: 37” H x 49 ¼” W x 21 ⅞” D
A handsome French Empire walnut commode from the 19th century, circa 1850. The top planks still bear the low ridges across the grain from being cut and milled by hand nearly two centuries ago, enhanced by patina developed in that time. The overhanging frieze is a hidden drawer, free of hardware, using a groove carved into the bottom edge to slide open. Making up the body of the piece are three large drawers with textured brass knobs and simple keyhole escutcheons, however no key is present. The drawer fronts showcase unique grain patterns of walnut that give the piece a sense of movement and warm color blending with the patina from daily use. Columnar pilasters on each side are emphasized with brass capitals and bases in Neoclassical motifs rising from thick, cylindrical feet. Cleaned and polished with a French paste wax, ready for your interior. Make sure to view the detailed images for a closer look.
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19th Century Dutch Empire Buffet
$4,500.0041"H x 51"W x 23.63"D
Dimensions: 41” H x 51” W x 23 ⅝” D
A breathtaking Dutch-made, French Empire style buffet of flamed mahogany with coordinating dark marble top surface for a classic & Neoclassical look. The slab exhibits constellations of light marbleization over the black stone, like glittering stars in the night sky. A drawer in the frieze opens by lion head ring pulls to reveal a divided interior of three sections. Pilasters to the left and right incorporate busts of noble caryatids, cast in gilt bronze, transitioning into claw feet to lift the case off the floor. The two doors are wrapped in a bookmatched mahogany veneer, opening in tandem using the fixed key as a pull. Inside is a stationary shelf, 18 ⅜” deep for generous storage in a dining room or living room. Cleaned, tightened, and polished with a French paste wax – ready for your interior. Please view the detailed images to see the wonderful features and antique condition of this handsome Empire case piece.
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French 19th Century Empire Secrétaire à Abattant
$4,500.0053.75"H x 37"W x 16.50"D
Dimensions: 53-¾”H x 37”W x 16-½”D
A stately 19th century mahogany secrétaire à abattant from France, circa 1810. This desk has an exceptional Saint Anne marble top resting above a single drawer disguised into the frieze. Just below the top drawer, the front of the desk folds forward to reveal a work area inset with vibrant red leather detailed with gold tooling. The leather is in great antique condition making this a comfortable place to work. When open, you can see the theatre is equipped with five drawers and a large, arched top cubby flanked with column forms. With the desk down the maximum depth is 32”; the writing surface is 28-½” high. The desk front and lower doors each feature a decorative brass escutcheon depicting intersecting torches among floral garland forms; one key is included for all four functioning locks. A pair of simple, round brass pulls on each drawer allow easy access. This Empire-style secretary features bookmatched mahogany and traditional Empire columns down each side with brass capitals and bases. Note there have been professional repairs made to the marble top which are nearly invisible to the eye, please view the detailed images for current condition.
